The Influence of Educational Psychology on Teaching Practices in Ecclesiastical Contexts
Society is experiencing an epidemic of people with psychosomatic conditions and a significant increase in neurodivergent individuals. This includes the ecclesiastical sphere. Despite belief in divine healing, certain diagnoses are, in reality, permanent conditions, such as ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).
For this reason, there arises a need for specific development regarding teaching practices in churches. Each individual with a condition requires a particular skill set so that the purpose of teaching and learning becomes effective, reaching its level of excellence.
Nevertheless, beyond the teacher’s specialization, there must be support from professionals in the field of Educational Psychology, in order to facilitate the relationship between teacher and student, as well as to offer a wider range of tools for dealing with everyday demands.
Thus, the role of Educational Psychology is of utmost relevance in the development of techniques and methods that provide teachers with resources to carry out fruitful and inclusive guidance. It performs both a therapeutic and diagnostic function, maintaining the connection between those who teach and those who learn.
Therefore, the demands of neurodivergent individuals in ecclesiastical communities should not be neglected. With the growing number of people with some disorder or special condition, the church is not exempt from playing its inclusive role in the area of teaching and learning. For this reason, it benefits greatly when teachers partner with Educational Psychology professionals.
