EDUCATIONAL RESILIENCE IN THE FACE OF A PANDEMIC: A STUDY ON HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS' AND TEACHERS' ATTITUDES TOWARD SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGISTS

The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified the challenges within the educational sector, highlighting the pivotal role of school psychologists in mitigating mental health issues among students and teachers. This study investigated the attitudes of 235 high school students and 61 teachers towards school psychologists in Slovakia, utilizing a comprehensive questionnaire that explores affective, cognitive, and behavioural dimensions. Participants were assessed during the pandemic from December 2020 to April 2021 using an online platform. Results indicated a general ambivalence in attitudes, with teachers displaying more positive dispositions across all dimensions compared to students. Specifically, teachers showed significantly higher scores in affective responses and recognition of the school psychologist's role in educational settings. These findings suggest the necessity for targeted educational programs that enhance mental health literacy and foster positive attitudes towards psychological support in schools. The study underscores the importance of school psychologists in educational systems, particularly during crises that impact mental health.