Writing Peace Psychology: Creating High-Impact Peace Research Scholarship

Abstract

Good peace psychology writing changes the world. Using plain language, it models effectiveness and impact by conveying ideas as simply as possible, but no simpler. The writer’s distinctive voice beckons a wide range of readers into dialogue and critical reflection through vivid narratives. It captures not only the reader’s eye, but their imagination. Congruence is its hallmark: messages are written clearly and compassionately; peaceful values infuse the tone, content, and conclusions of the work. It is realistic while accenting the possible; it highlights relationships and contributions of others, taking its place in the community of ideas. Policy considerations appear alongside theory, research, and practice in seamless ways, modeling essential dialogue amongst them. Seeking to apply these principles, this chapter outlines the strengths of effective peace psychology writing as well as challenges to achieving it. It offers readers multiple markers for planning, developing, and assessing their work in progress. Stepping outside “business as usual,” the chapter advocates aesthetic, sensory writing and presents seven habits of effective writers that help produce it, along with illustrative examples. Finally, the chapter surveys research networks and dissemination, canvassing a range of platforms for increasing impact, aka changing the world.