Empowerment through understanding : an Adlerian perspective

Abstract

This study aims at measuring the effectiveness of the training programme "There Must Be Another Way'' for youth educators. This course is based on Adlerian Psychology and principles to aid educators understand student behaviour and needs. It also offers courses of action and alternative discipline techniques in the case of disruptive behaviour. The final aim of this programme is the enhancement of self-awareness and empowerment in both youth educators and the young people themselves, There are three main reasons behind this study. The Adlerian Institute in Florida, USA, showed an interest in this work and encouraged me to undertake this research. Similar courses are run in the USA. These are the first such programmes to be held in Malta and both the local Adlerian Psychology Association and myself are interested in an evaluation of their effectiveness. Personal interest in the Adlerian perspective on understanding of human behaviour together with my long personal experience as an educator drove me to create and evaluate the effectiveness of this course.