What was one of Lightner Witmer's key contributions to psychology?

One of Lightner Witmer's key contributions to psychology was advocating for children with special needs. He is widely regarded as the founder of clinical psychology and played a pivotal role in establishing the field of school psychology. In 1896, he opened the first psychological clinic at the University of Pennsylvania, where he focused on the assessment and treatment of children with learning difficulties and other psychological problems. His work emphasized the importance of understanding the unique needs of these children and providing tailored interventions to support their development and education. This advocacy laid the groundwork for future practices in educational psychology, particularly in how schools address the needs of diverse learners.

Understanding Witmer’s influence highlights the evolution of psychological services and the recognition of the importance of individualized educational strategies for children facing various challenges.