Chance and choice, change and continuity--that's life

J Pers Assess. 2004 Oct;83(2):105-19. doi: 10.1207/s15327752jpa8302_03.

Abstract

Responding to this invitation to write an autobiography, I have tried to put in some order, the jumble of memories that come to mind. There are markers of the journey--the major decisions and changes in direction, many influenced by external events. Despite turns and detours, there is also continuity of interests and behavioral style. My beginnings on a Nebraska farm were a considerable distance in place and character from my current retirement in Oregon. The trail of events was especially marked by the death of my father, early choice of psychology, military service in Germany, marriage in Paris, establishing the university clinic and clinical program at the University of Oregon, starting a school of Community Service and Public Affairs, working with Leona Tyler on books and an extensive research project, and a year going around the world with my family including a long period in India. My principal contributions to personality assessment include cross-cultural studies, development of a boredom scale, community psychology connections, many reviews, books in clinical psychology and assessment, and work with students and others who continue this important branch of psychology.

Publication types

  • Autobiography
  • Biography
  • Comparative Study
  • Historical Article

MeSH terms

  • Career Choice*
  • Cross-Cultural Comparison
  • History, 20th Century
  • History, 21st Century
  • Humans
  • India
  • Life Change Events*
  • Male
  • Personality Assessment*
  • Psychology*
  • Research
  • United States

Personal name as subject

  • Norman D Sundberg