APA again delays decision on Jewish psychologists’ bid for ethnic association status

August 7, 2026 - 21:10

The American Psychological Association has again delayed a decision on whether to grant formal recognition to the Association of Jewish Psychologists, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from Jewish advocacy groups who see the hesitation as a troubling sign of the times.

The vote, which was expected to take place during the APA's recent governance meeting, was pushed back without a new timeline. The Jewish psychologists' group had applied for status as an ethnic psychological association, a designation that would give it a formal voice within the APA's structure and allow it to nominate members to certain committees.

Jewish organizations argue that the delay is not a procedural matter but a symptom of a deeper problem. They point to a climate where Jewish identity is increasingly treated as less legitimate than other ethnic or cultural identities, and where concerns about antisemitism are often dismissed or downplayed. The Association of Jewish Psychologists was created in part to address the specific mental health needs of Jewish communities and to combat antisemitism within the profession itself.

Supporters of the application say the APA has granted similar recognition to other ethnic groups without this level of scrutiny or repeated postponement. They are calling on the APA leadership to schedule a vote promptly and to offer a clear explanation for the delay. The APA has not issued a public statement beyond confirming that the matter remains under review.