Art as a Factor in the Prevention of Aggression in School – Theoritical and Practical Aspects

Abstract

This paper addresses the problem of preventing aggression in school through artistic means. It was written with a focus on the idea of offering theoretical and practical assistance to students in pedagogical disciplines, teachers and other professionals in the educational field. The paper discusses the issue in various aspects.The first aspect presents the functions of art and the socio-environmental model as a possible framework for the prevention and overcoming of negative behaviors. The choice of this model is dictated by a consideration related to the possibilities for realization of artistic activity at several levels - individual, interpersonal, educational and social. In this way, a broader spectrum of pedagogical interaction is developed, aimed at responding to the use of "hate speech".With regard to the teacher's role in pedagogical activities related to counteracting aggression in school, emphasis is placed on communication. It is essential to focus on the creative process rather than the product, which makes the use of any type of assessment unacceptable.Practical activities that help the teacher are presented through different types of art. They focus on both prevention and response to aggression and negative behaviors in school environment. The activities under consideration are based on musical, visual and theatrical art.The content of this paper is aimed at those who are interested in topics related to art’s possibilities in reacting and preventing aggression and negative behaviors in educational institutions. An approach based on the active participation of pedagogical specialists and students in artistic activities, which has been tested in a real school environment, is presented.