Rodney L. Lowman: A Distinguished Career in Industrial-Organizational and Consulting Psychology

Introduction

Rodney L. Lowman, a prominent figure in the fields of industrial-organizational and consulting psychology, has made significant contributions both within and outside of academia. Currently, he serves as the president of Lowman & Richardson, a consulting psychology service based in San Diego, California, and is a Distinguished Professor Emeritus at Alliant International University. This article explores Lowman's life, academic journey, professional achievements, and his influential role in psychology.

Early Life and Education

Childhood and Early Interests

Rodney L. Lowman was born in 1949, showing an early interest in understanding human behavior and organizational dynamics. His initial academic pursuit was in business, which later evolved into a deep-seated interest in psychology.

Academic Background

Lowman began his academic journey by earning a Bachelor of Science degree in business from Oklahoma State University–Oklahoma City in 1969. His passion for psychology led him to pursue further studies, earning a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of Oklahoma in 1973. He then moved to Michigan State University, where he obtained both his Master of Arts and Ph.D. in industrial-organizational psychology by 1979.

Academic and Professional Career

Early Career

Lowman's early career was marked by a blend of academic and consulting roles. He began teaching while simultaneously engaging in practical consulting work, applying psychological principles to organizational settings.

Positions and Roles

Lowman has held numerous prestigious positions throughout his career. He served as the head of the Department of Psychology at Louisiana Tech University, Acting President of Alliant International University, and president of Lake Superior State University. His leadership roles extended to significant contributions on the APA council and the Committee on Professional Practice and Standards.

Major Contributions to Psychology

Industrial-Organizational Psychology

Lowman's primary focus has been on industrial-organizational psychology. His work in this field involves applying psychological principles to improve organizational efficiency and employee well-being. His consulting efforts have helped various organizations optimize their operations and enhance their work environments.

Key Concepts and Applications

Organizational Efficiency: Lowman has developed frameworks to assess and improve organizational structures and processes.
Employee Well-being: He has emphasized the importance of psychological health in the workplace, advocating for policies that support mental health and job satisfaction.

Consulting Psychology

Lowman is a recognized authority in consulting psychology, a field that applies psychological insights to solve practical problems in business and organizational settings. He has pioneered ethical practices within this domain, ensuring that consulting work adheres to high moral standards.

Ethical Consulting

Lowman’s interest in ethics within consulting psychology has been a significant aspect of his work. He has developed guidelines and best practices for ethical consulting, helping to shape the standards of the profession.

Publications and Theories

Lowman has authored several influential books and articles that have become foundational texts in psychology. His notable works include:

"An Introduction to Consulting Psychology: Working With Individuals, Groups, and Organizations": This book serves as a comprehensive guide for psychologists entering the consulting field, offering practical advice and theoretical insights.
"The Ethical Practice of Consulting Psychology": In this book, Lowman explores the ethical challenges faced by consulting psychologists and provides frameworks for ethical decision-making.

Influence and Legacy

Impact on Psychology

Lowman's contributions have significantly impacted both industrial-organizational and consulting psychology. His work has provided valuable insights into organizational behavior and ethics, influencing practices and policies in various organizations.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Lowman has received numerous awards and honors, reflecting his influence and contributions to psychology. These include:

Fellowship with several APA divisions: Recognizing his contributions to the field.
Service Award from the Society of Consulting Psychology: Honoring his dedication and service.
Richard Kilburg Service Award by the Society of Psychologists in Management: Acknowledging his leadership and impact in the field of management psychology.

Educational Contributions

As a professor and mentor, Lowman has influenced many students and professionals in psychology. His teachings and writings have guided new generations of psychologists, ensuring the continued growth and development of the field.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond his professional achievements, Lowman is known for his dedication to ethical practices and his commitment to improving organizational dynamics. His personal interests include exploring the interplay between business practices and psychological principles, as well as advocating for mental health awareness.

Takeaways

Rodney L. Lowman’s career is a testament to the profound impact that one individual can have on the fields of industrial-organizational and consulting psychology. His work has not only advanced theoretical understanding but also provided practical solutions to real-world problems. Through his publications, ethical guidelines, and leadership roles, Lowman has left an indelible mark on psychology, shaping it for future generations.