May 10, 1996 Contact: Jennifer McNulty (408) 459-2495; mcnulty@ua.ucsc.edu

PSYCHOLOGIST M. BREWSTER SMITH RECEIVES LIFETIME SERVICE AWARD

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SANTA CRUZ, CA--M. Brewster Smith, professor emeritus of psychology at the University of California, Santa Cruz, has received the first Lifetime Service Award bestowed by the Western Psychological Association. The award recognizes Smith's "distinguished contributions to the advancement of the science and profession of psychology."

"Professor Smith brings to psychology a unique blend of social concern, dedicated service, intelligent analysis of important problems, and enthusiasm, not only for his fellow scientists, but for all of humankind," wrote Robert Solso when he announced the award in the association's newsletter. "This rare individual has been an inspiration to countless young psychologists who have studied with him and come under his influence directly, and to many more who have read some of his immense collection of papers, books, and articles."

A social psychologist, Smith retired from UCSC in 1988 but continues to teach and do research. His 50-year career has focused on the interplay of psychological and political processes. His pioneering book Opinions and Personality (New York: Wiley, 1956), coauthored with two colleagues at the Harvard Psychological Clinic, describes people's deepest feelings and their views of politics and society. Smith did groundbreaking work on the ways in which people's opinions are influenced by their strategies for coping with the world, with their social relations, and with their inner conflicts. Most recently, Smith has drawn on psychological research to suggest ways to reduce the threat of nuclear war.

Smith's career began at Harvard University, where he earned his Ph.D. in 1947. He subsequently was on the faculty of Vassar College, New York University, UC Berkeley, the University of Chicago, and UCSC.

The WPA's Lifetime Service Award was created to recognize members of the association who exemplify a lifelong record of exceptional service to psychology and to the WPA. Smith's award was presented April 12 during the association's annual spring meeting in San Jose.

This release is also available on the World Wide Web at UCSC's "Services for Journalists" site (http://www.ucsc.edu/news/journalist.html) or via modem from UC NewsWire (209-244-6971).

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