Prof Philippa Howden-Chapman will join Green MP Sue Bradford in being presented with a New Zealand Psychological Society public interest award.
The award acknowledges valuable contributions to psychology in the public interest.
Prof Howden-Chapman was recognised for her work in bringing data-based rigour into serious housing problems in New Zealand, and thus raising awareness of the need for warmer, drier and healthier homes.
Society president Jack Austin said Prof Howden-Chapman's work had drawn attention to health and other inequalities.
Her training in psychology and scientific methodology, her skills in meta-analysis, her experience in public health and her work in social contexts had all enabled her to recognise what was important for policy-makers, he said.
"In short, [she] has made an outstanding solution-focused, psychologically-based contribution to a major social problem."
Prof Howden-Chapman asked, as part of the award, that the society give $500 to the Wellington night shelter.
The society also recognised the work of Ms Bradford, the architect of the anti-smacking law, for her contributions to the protection of children.
Her work had been an inspiration, particularly considering her resolve when facing immense public criticism for repealing provisions in the Crimes Act that provided protection for adults who assaulted children, Mr Austin said.
Her determination to proceed with her private member's Bill to repeal section 59 of the Crimes Act was based on her belief children should have the same protection from assault as adults.
The awards will be presented at a function in Palmerston North on August 27.
