When times are tough, psychological perspective and frameworks can anchor us, offering reminders of what’s truly important
Working in education often involves navigating an onslaught of conflicting advice and expectations from a range of stakeholders, each with their own agendas and perspectives. It’s easy to feel rudderless and adrift in such stormy waters. During challenging times, turning to psychological frameworks can be deeply grounding, offering clarity, and helping us renew our focus on what truly matters: our purpose, our relationships, and our shared humanity.
The theorical perspectives we adopt in our practice as educational professionals has been a key topic of discussion during our coordinators' meetings this academic year. These termly meetings, held at our office on Lower Compton Road, provide a valuable space for reflection, peer supervision, and professional support for SENCos. At our most recent meeting, I had the opportunity to share three psychological frameworks that are central to my work and that help ground me when I feel adrift: Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory, Rogerian Therapeutic Approaches, and Humanistic Psychology. These psychological perspectives align closely with the core values of MAST, and I see their relevance in the way my colleagues tackle the demands and complexities of our work with skill and compassion.
Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory
Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory highlights the interconnected systems that influence a child’s development, from their microsystem, which comprises their family, school, and friendship group, to their macrosystem, which encompasses culture, social norms, and government policies. For educational professionals, this theory reminds us of our crucial role within a child's immediate environment, but also that responsibility for their outcomes is shared across multiple influences, including wider societal factors. It encourages us to reflect on what we can control—such as our interpersonal relationships and teaching practices—as opposed to focusing on what lies beyond our influence. By directing our time, energy, and effort on areas where we can make the greatest impact, we can better support children’s development while not taking on responsibility for things outside of our power.
Rogerian Therapeutic Approaches
Rogerian Therapeutic Approaches, specifically Carl Rogers’ Person-Centred Therapy, seeks to work with individuals rather than imposing changes on them. Rogerian Therapy focuses on genuine and open interactions, a commitment to understanding the individual’s perspective, and an attitude of non-judgemental acceptance as the foundations for change. For educational professionals, these principles highlight the importance of fostering positive relationships with children and families to create the best conditions for growth. While educators are not therapists, incorporating therapeutic approaches—such as active listening, empathy, and unconditional positive regard—can greatly enhance our practice and help us feel connected to those we work with. These strategies cultivate a collaborative, respectful environment that benefits us all.
Humanistic Psychology
Humanist Psychology strives to understand individuals holistically; it emphasises the relevance of a person’s full life history, and places enormous value on their intentions, aspirations, and goals. Central to this psychological perspective is the importance of human choice and responsibility, emphasising each individual’s intrinsic capacity for growth and self-fulfilment. For educational professionals, Humanist Psychology reminds us that a child is far more than their conduct, level of compliance, or academic achievement—they hold intrinsic value as a whole person. While we can ‘plant seeds’ by providing support, guidance, and opportunities, it is ultimately the child and their family who decide how to nurture these within their own ideals and journey towards self-fulfilment.
Summary
When the pressures of professional life build, it’s important to pause, take stock, and consider on what keeps us grounded. For me, this grounding comes from psychological perspectives that remind me of what’s important: my professional purpose, my interpersonal relationships, and my sense of shared humanity. In moments of overwhelm, I encourage you to reflect on what anchors you and keeps you from feeling adrift.
