American Psychological Association

The American Psychological Association (APA) is the leading scientific and professional organisation representing psychology in the United States. Founded in 1892 by 31 members who set out to establish "the new psychology", it now counts over 172,000 members and is the world's largest organisation representing psychological science. Its work spans psychological science, clinical psychology, scientific publishing, evidence-based mental health policy, public education and the development of professional standards, with the stated aim of applying psychological knowledge to benefit society.

APA's output ranges across research, education and clinical practice. Its publishing programmes advance psychological science, and APA Style, the scholarly writing guide established by the association in 1929, remains widely used across academia. The organisation is organised into 54 specialised divisions covering areas of research, education and clinical practice within psychology, and runs advocacy and public-education efforts addressing contemporary mental health challenges through evidence-based policy.

Headquartered in the United States, the association operates at the intersection of research, education, clinical practice and mental health. It describes an emphasis on scientific rigour and professional standards, and a practice of adapting to meet society's evolving needs, a pattern it traces to the pioneering thinking of its founders.