The National Academy of Psychology (India) i.e. NAOP was established with the aim of promoting the field of psychology in India and establishing it as an important role in social welfare. This institution not only promotes academic and research activities, but also works to maintain the highest level of professional code of conduct, ethical norms, and psychological services.
Today in this article we will discuss in detail the mission, objectives, organizational structure, membership process and various aspects related to NAOP, so that you can better understand this important academy.
What is NAOP?
The National Academy of Psychology, also known as NAOP-India, has been recognized as a premier organization with respect to psychology in India. It became duly adopted in the annual conference held in Bhopal during 13 December 2014.A continuous effort is the main object of this academy concerning teaching, research and social development, as well, human welfare in psychology.
This institute works at various levels to promote the development of psychology in India, as well as to strengthen the identity of Indian psychology on the global platform by establishing cooperation with international organizations.
Main objectives of NAOP
The mission of NAOP is not limited to academic activities only. Its broad objectives are as follows:
- To develop the field of psychology in India and protect its interests.
- To promote high quality journals and publications.
- To establish a process for accreditation of psychology courses.
- To establish academic and professional collaborations with national and international organizations.
- To honor individuals as Fellows of the Academy for outstanding research work or professional work.
- To ensure high ethical standards in education, research and professional services.
- To promote the highest standards of psychological measurement, tests and instruments.
- To conduct any other activities as required that further the objectives of the Academy.
Types of Membership in NAOP
NAOP offers three types of membership:
- Full Members: Persons holding a Masters or equivalent degree, who are engaged in teaching, research or professional practice. They have voting rights.
- Associate Members: Students of psychological sciences or related subjects can become members, but they will not have voting rights.
- Foreign Affiliates: People living outside India, who are engaged in academic or professional field related to psychology. They also do not have voting rights.
- All memberships require recommendation of the Membership Committee and approval of the Executive Council through application/invitation/nomination.
- Membership fees may be updated from time to time. Membership rights will be effective only when the annual fee has been paid.
Role of Council of Members
The Council of Members is the supreme body of NAOP, in which only full members participate.
Its major functions are as follows:
- To approve the budget and audit reports.
- To approve the fees for various membership categories.
- To determine measures to generate financial resources for the Academy.
- To accredit teaching and research programs.
- To establish collaborations with national and international organizations.
- To approve the annual report.
- To take all other major policy decisions.
- The annual meeting of the Council of Members is held at the time of the annual conference.
- Extraordinary meetings may be held under special circumstances, when the Executive Council or 25% of the full members demand it.
Executive Council
The Executive Council is the main body for policy and planning work of NAOP. Its functions are as follows:
- To develop and update the mission and vision of the Academy.
- To implement the decisions of the Council of Members.
- To develop standards for standardization and tests.
- To set standards for accreditation, certification and licensing for education and professional services.
- To establish ethical standards.
Members of Executive Council:
- President
- President-Elect
- Past President
- Secretary-General
- Treasurer
- Chairman of Publication Committee
- 7 Members-at-large
Responsibilities of President, Secretary and Treasurer
- President: Leads all the operations of the Academy, presides over all meetings and officially represents the Academy.
- Secretary-General: Administrative head of the Academy, maintains all records, communicates with members and implements the decisions of EC and Council.
- Treasurer: Responsible for financial management of the Academy, prepares annual accounts and gets them audited by the Auditor.
NAOP’s Standing Committees
The Academy has several standing committees, the major ones being:
- Membership Committee
- Publication Committee
- Finance Committee
- Fellowship & Awards Committee
- Conference Committee
- Election Committee
- Accreditation & Certification Committee
- Ethics Committee
- Social Policy Committee
- Liaison Committee
These committees ensure expertise in various fields and maintain transparency and quality in the work of the Academy.
Academic Divisions and Board of Advisors
Academic Divisions:
Various academic divisions have been created within NAOP with the objective of:
- Organizing academic programs
- Promoting high quality teaching
- Encouraging quality publications
- Promoting academic innovation
Board of Advisors: A three-member advisory board that provides guidance to the Executive Council on policy and actions. It also acts as an appellate authority in disputes.
Fellowships and Awards
- Members who become Fellows of NAOP can use the prefix FNAPsy with their names.
- Fellowships and other awards are given every year for distinguished contributions.
Conclusion
NAOP (India) is a platform that is not only enriching the field of psychology in India but also playing an active role in social development. It aims not only to provide a common platform to academics and professionals but also to bring about a positive change in society while maintaining ethical norms and quality standards. If you are engaged in study, research, or professional service in the field of psychology, become a member of NAOP and become a part of this mission.
