Psychology, once dismissed as an unconventional field, has now gained recognition as an essential discipline for understanding human behaviour. For Dr. Ameeta Parsuram, a psychologist and academician with over four decades of experience, this journey began in the bustling lanes of Delhi, shaped by an innate curiosity about people and their emotions.
Born and brought up in Roopnagar, near Delhi University, she grew up in a household where education and values were deeply respected. Her parents had migrated from Gujranwala, Pakistan, during Partition, bringing with them not just memories of a lost homeland but also resilience and wisdom. Though her formal education took place in some of Delhi’s best institutions, she believes her real lessons in life came from her family, particularly her father, who profoundly influenced her thinking and priorities.
Her fascination with human behaviour was evident from a young age. While most students were drawn to subjects like economics and political science, she found herself captivated by psychology. “I was always curious about why people behaved the way they did. If someone was isolated in class, I would empathise with their emotions and wonder how they felt,” she recalls. At a time when psychology was dismissed as an obscure or even “crazy” field, she embraced it wholeheartedly.
She pursued a Psychology Honours degree at Indraprastha College, followed by a Master’s, MPhil, PhD, and postdoctoral research from CSDS. After brief teaching stints in various colleges, she found her academic home at Jesus and Mary College, where she taught psychology for nearly 40 years, retiring on December 31, 2020. Throughout her career, she mentored generations of students, shaping their understanding of the human mind and its complexities.
Post-retirement, she continues to apply her expertise as a psychology consultant and soft skills trainer for organisations. She will be conducting a talk on Women’s Day to share her expertise. She believes that while psychology has gained wider acceptance in India, there is still a long way to go in eliminating stigma around mental health. “People have started acknowledging mental health issues, but there are still many misconceptions. We need to work towards greater awareness and acceptance,” she says.
Beyond psychology, Dr. Ameeta is also a poet. Her first poetry collection, Ishq Lamhe, was released in 2020 by renowned artists Pankaj Udaas, Hariharan, and Anup Jalota. Her second book is on its way, reflecting her deep connection to emotions, relationships, and the human experience.
She has recently relocated to Wellington. The change in environment has been refreshing, offering new perspectives and opportunities for growth. “Every place has its own rhythm, its own way of shaping your thoughts. People here are very friendly and cooperative. It’s so neat and clean. I love the way this place helps us stay close to nature. Wellington has given me a new space to reflect and create,” she shares.
