The Role of Educational Psychologists in Promoting Prosocial Behaviours within Post-Conflict Settings

Even after the signing of a peace agreement, children and adolescents often develop in divided societies that experience continued intergroup tensions and hostilities. A majority of research carried out in post-conflict settings has tended to view young people as passive victims or troublemakers perpetuating a cycle of violence. However, young people can also play a positive role in rebuilding society after conflict. There is a need to foster positive youth outcomes among those born after the height of violence, such as prosocial behaviours, which may serve as an indicator of positive adjustment and antecedent for peacebuilding. The current paper explores the peacemaker role of educational psychologists in promoting prosocial behaviours within post-conflict settings. Implications for educational psychology practice are discussed.