This research area focuses on the study of behaviours, the main psychological functions, and psychological processes related to education and counselling, in a developmental perspective that includes the whole life course, with particular focus on the period from early infancy to entry into adulthood.

Furthermore, it includes the observation of developmental levels and the early detection of typical and atypical developmental markers, aimed at identifying risk and protection factors. These will be used to outline evaluation and prevention interventions aimed at promoting psychological well-being.

The research themes of the area are developed by applying quantitative and qualitative methods, observation and experimentation both in the field and in the laboratory. In particular, research is carried out on the following topics:

• promotion of psychological well-being in educational contexts (e.g., school, family, peers, online settings), with particular attention to the development of socio-emotional and life skills and the promotion of positive relationships among peers;
• bullying and cyberbullying: risk and protection factors (coping, resilience) and development of intervention programs;
• study of (visual-spatial, executive, etc.) psychological processes, with a particular focus on learning;
• analysis of factors and preconditions of learning, as a function of the programs for intervention oriented to diverse actors in schools (students, teachers, parents), evaluation of their efficacy in micro- and macro-systems.

Research activities reflecting international practices are adapted in proposals for intervention on the local level, according to the expressed interests and needs of schools, associations and institutions.

Coordinator: Prof. Demis Basso