Lightner Witmer
American psychologist who coined 'clinical psychology' and opened the first psychological clinic.
Most quoted
"The object of clinical psychology is to ascertain the mental and moral status of the individual and to devise means for his improvement."
— from Clinical Psychology, 1907
"Clinical psychology is the study of individuals, by observation or experimentation, with the intention of promoting change."
— from Clinical Psychology, 1907
"The clinical psychologist is a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and moral retardation and deviation."
— from Clinical Psychology, 1907
All quotes by Lightner Witmer (102)
The study of individual differences is the cornerstone of clinical psychology.
The clinical psychologist must be a keen observer and a careful experimenter.
The problems of human behavior are complex and require a multidisciplinary approach.
The psychologist must be a humanitarian as well as a scientist.
The future of psychology lies in its application to human welfare.
The psychological clinic is a place where science and humanity meet.
The psychologist must be a teacher, a counselor, and a friend.
The mental health of the individual is essential for the well-being of society.
The psychologist must be an advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves.
The ultimate goal of clinical psychology is to help individuals realize their full potential.
The psychologist must be a lifelong learner, constantly adapting to new knowledge and techniques.
The clinical method is not merely a technique, but a philosophy of approaching human problems.
The psychologist must be a bridge between the scientific laboratory and the practical world.
The study of the normal mind is incomplete without the study of the abnormal mind.
The psychologist must be a keen observer of human nature in all its manifestations.
The problems of mental retardation are not hopeless; they are challenges to our ingenuity.
The psychologist must be a pioneer, exploring new frontiers in the understanding of the human mind.
The clinical method is a dynamic process, constantly evolving with new discoveries.
The psychologist must be a compassionate listener and an insightful interpreter.
The goal of clinical psychology is not merely to cure, but to prevent.
Contemporaries of Lightner Witmer
Other Psychologys born within 50 years of Lightner Witmer (1867–1941).