Teaching of psychology in Russia

Psychology is taught in certain schools and colleges, mainly in cities such as Moscow, St Petersburg, Rostov-on-Don. In some Russian schools, the approach to teaching psychology is quite different from that in most western European countries. Psychology, or “psychological competence”, is integrated into the whole curriculum, even at primary school level – this is termed the “psychologisation” of the educational process. This particular model has been developed since 1966 by staff at the Education Faculty of the Southern Federal University in Rostov-on-Don, in partnership with other universities in the region and local schools. 

The aim of this approach to the education of children and young people is to support the development of each individual’s personality within the context of the socialisation process. It is a person-centred approach that draws upon humanistic psychology: emphasis is placed upon developing individual and interpersonal values and competences such as self-development, self-regulation, coping strategies for stress, creativity, mutual respect, acceptance of diverse cultures, equality, and reduction of interpersonal conflicts. Psychology education is regarded as important for prevention of problems amongst young people, such as depression and suicide. Specialised teacher-training and professional development is also provided, to support teachers in delivering the “psychologised” curriculum.

Psychology teachers' association.

Details available soon.

Russian Society of Psychologists

Contact
Dr Raisa Chumicheva
Send a message to Dr Raisa Chumicheva

Documents

Presentation: 'Psychologisation' of education: a Russian model for integrating psychology in schools