This paper considers the nature, status and direction of 'ecopsycholog
y' and its relationship to psychology and environmental psychology. A
brief historical perspective is provided, along with an examination of
what is currently encompassed by the term, and by whom, with a partic
ular focus on the writings of Roszak (1992). An attempt is made to sep
arate social movement from changing social representation and to disti
nguish psychological content and focus from ideology, individual and s
ocietal change agenda, and popular culture. The paper gives particular
attention to the nature and role of 'self' as ultimate target and age
nt of meaningful change, both in the context of conservation initiativ
es and with respect to therapeutic encounter/intervention. The nature
and expression of ecopsychology in Australia are also briefly explored
, as are the representations of indigenous 'earth wisdom' and spiritua
lity as touchstone for ecosystem 'sanity'. Three final questions are p
osed and discussed in the paper. What does ecopsychology offer psychol
ogy? What does psychology have to offer ecopsychology? Can environment
al psychology encompass ecopsychology? The prognosis for environmental
psychology and the greening of psychology is explored. (C) 1995 Acade
mic Press Limited