The role of school psychologists is pivotal in promoting students' well-being and academic success. However, the professional practices and representations of school psychologists can vary significantly. A recent qualitative study titled "The Italian School Psychologists’ Role: A Qualitative Study about Professional Practices and Representations" offers valuable insights into the current practices of school psychologists in Italy and highlights areas for improvement.
The study involved 11 focus groups with a total of 86 participants and used ad hoc instruments to gather data. The results revealed that Italian school psychologists primarily focus on building one-on-one relationships with students. However, they face challenges in establishing relationships with the broader school organization. Participants reported a wide range of activities targeted at both individuals and the organization, emphasizing the need for a more defined role and additional training.
Key Findings:
- School psychologists often work reactively rather than proactively due to organizational and practical barriers.
- There is a significant need to promote an organizational approach among school psychologists.
- Building strong relationships with school principals and the entire school community is crucial for effective practice.
- Specific training should be offered to better define the school psychologists' role and equip them with the necessary skills.
Practical Recommendations:
- Enhance Proactive Interventions: Shift from reactive to proactive approaches by implementing preventative services that address potential difficulties before they escalate.
- Strengthen Organizational Relationships: Foster stronger connections with school principals and the entire school community to ensure a cohesive approach to student well-being.
- Provide Targeted Training: Offer specialized training to help school psychologists better understand and navigate the complexities of their role within the school system.
- Promote an Organizational Approach: Encourage school psychologists to adopt a whole-school approach that addresses the needs of the entire school community, not just individual students.
By addressing these areas, school psychologists can significantly enhance their impact on students' well-being and academic success. Practitioners are encouraged to implement these recommendations and consider conducting further research to continue improving their practices.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: The Italian School Psychologists’ Role: A Qualitative Study about Professional Practices and Representations
