In which decade did the first major regulations and laws for psychological practice occur?

The first major regulations and laws for psychological practice developed significantly during the 1940s, marking a pivotal period in the professional landscape of psychology. This decade witnessed developments such as the establishment of licensing laws and ethical standards that guided the practice of psychology.

The enactment of the National Mental Health Act of 1946 also significantly influenced the field by promoting the training of clinical psychologists and funding for mental health services, thereby formalizing many aspects of psychological practice. The progression towards structured professional oversight took shape during this decade, setting precedents that would shape future regulations.

In contrast, the earlier decades focused more on the theoretical underpinnings and the establishment of psychology as a discipline, rather than on regulatory frameworks. The advancements in the 1940s established a foundation for further developments in psychological practice and ethics in subsequent decades.