UC Merced Undergraduate Research Journal

Psychology as a discipline has been historically shaped by Western ideologies and overrepresented by Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic (WEIRD) populations. This over-representation results in a narrow and culturally biased understanding of mental health, marginalizing Indigenous and non-Western perspectives. The dominance of “whiteness” in psychology, in which Western norms are treated as universals, fails to account for the diverse cultural, spiritual, and communal frameworks of Indigenous populations. This paper explores Indigenous psychology as a necessary response to this imbalance, emphasizing the decolonization of psychological practices and the implementation of culturally centered treatments. Drawing on global Indigenous movements, it highlights the significance of reconnecting with traditional knowledge systems, holistic and collectivist models of well-being, and culturally rooted healing practices. Case studies such as the Māori philosophy of Hauora, community-led workshops in Canada, and the National Empowerment Project in Australia demonstrate the efficacy of culturally grounded approaches in addressing historical trauma andpromoting mental health. Ultimately, the paper argues for a reimagining of psychological practice that prioritizes Indigenous epistemologies, supports cultural revitalization, and seeks justice and healing for historically marginalized communities.