Congress of Developmental and Educational Psychologists: children, adolescents and schools take centre stage at the 38th edition

The 38th National Congress of the Developmental and Educational Psychology Section of the Italian Psychological Association (AIP), organised by Professor Martina Smorti, has just come to a close at the University of Pisa.

The event brought together 357 psychologists from universities, research centres and various professional backgrounds across Italia. The scientific programme comprised 44 symposia, five oral presentations and six poster sessions, providing an important opportunity for discussion on the key issues currently affecting developmental and educational psychology.

The discussions focused on the psychological wellbeing of children and adolescents, the changes that characterise the transition to adulthood, the role of the school psychologist, and the quality of academic training for young psychologists. Considerable attention was also given to inclusion, emerging vulnerabilities and the new educational and social challenges facing the younger generations.

The two keynote presentations delivered by academics from University College London were of particular significance. Professor Ingrid Schoon examined the effects of the pandemic on adolescents’ mental health. Professor Julie Dockrell, meanwhile, devoted her presentation to the topic of inclusive education.

The conference confirmed the need to place scientific knowledge on human development at the heart of education, school and health policies. Understanding the changes that occur during childhood, adolescence and early adulthood is, in fact, essential for designing effective preventive measures and appropriate responses to the needs of individuals, families and communities.