THE TRANSFER OF PSYCHOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE TO THE THIRD WORLD COUNTRIES AND ITS IMPACT ON DEVELOPMENT: THE CASE OF FIVE ARAB GULF OIL-PRODUCING STATES

Abstract

Psychological knowledge transmitted by universities in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates is presented and some historical-cultural roots identified. Required courses for a B.A. are similar to those in the United States. Almost all courses are taught in Arabic and offered in the Faculties of Education. Four types of psychology books are identified. Laboratories are well equipped and libraries well stocked with Arabic and English books and periodicals. Research is primarily directed towards educational-psychological issues. Psychological tests are widely used but lack adequate standardization. Efforts are being made to develop tests locally. Psychology has not attracted enough top-quality students and expatriate professors are in the majority. Impact is mostly felt in Special Education and the media, but not enough in management and planning. Recommendations to ameliorate the situations are suggested.