What is it about?

The 2024 International Humanitarian Award from the American Psychological Association (APA) has been awarded to Dr. Sayed Jafar Ahmadi and Zeinab Musavi in recognition of their outstanding contributions to psychology and their support for vulnerable communities, particularly in Afghanistan. In 2015, Dr. Ahmadi and Ms. Musavi co-founded the Behrawan Research and Psychology Services Organization (BRPSO) to provide psychological support and crisis intervention for individuals affected by traumatic events such as terrorist attacks, and social crises. Their organization also played a vital role in reducing public anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. Beyond offering mental health services, they have actively worked to create educational opportunities for Afghan girls and have conducted extensive research on effective psychological interventions. Despite the challenges posed by the Taliban’s takeover in 2021, they continued to support Afghan communities remotely while advancing psychological knowledge through education and research. Currently, Dr. Ahmadi serves as a research scholar at Bard College and remains committed to making psychology accessible to all, particularly to communities in crisis. This award is a testament to their humanitarian dedication and their significant contributions to psychological research and mental health care.

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Why is it important?

This award is significant because of the profound impact Dr. Sayed Jafar Ahmadi and Zeinab Musavi have had on psychology and their support for communities in crisis. They have not only provided psychological services but have also developed scientific and practical solutions to help trauma survivors in the midst of war, terrorist attacks, and social crises. What makes their work unique is that they have conducted research and psychological interventions in one of the world’s most challenging environments—war-torn Afghanistan. While many psychologists work in safe settings, they have brought psychology into the heart of crisis zones, bridging the gap between science and real-world application. This is a story of hope, resilience, and the real impact of psychology on people's lives.

Perspectives

This text is not just an official recognition; it tells a human and scientific journey that demonstrates how psychology can help save lives even in the most challenging circumstances. To me, this is more than just an award—it is a testament to the power of knowledge, dedication, and courage shown by two individuals who have faced not only academic challenges but also real threats and humanitarian crises. Social and Cultural Significance: It showcases how psychology can bring real change to regions with limited access to mental health care. To me, this text is not just an introduction or a tribute; it is a source of inspiration for psychologists, researchers, and even the general public, proving that knowledge and commitment can truly change lives.

Sayed Jafar Ahmadi
Bard College

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This page is a summary of: International Humanitarian Award: Sayed Jafar Ahmadi and Zeinab Musavi., American Psychologist, December 2024, American Psychological Association (APA),
DOI: 10.1037/amp0001460.
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