Determination of pre-service teachers’ sensitivity to violence against children

Abstract

Purpose: Violence against children in the world and Turkey is increasing day by day, and this alarming increase harms the development of children and the future of society. Therefore, pre-service teachers' sensitivity to violence against children is of great importance in terms of revealing the violence and conducting preventive and directive services. This study aimed to determine pre-service teachers' sensitivity to violence against children. Research Methods: This was a case study using a qualitative research design. The study group consisted of sixteen pre-service teachers who were studying in eight different departments, in the third and fourth grades of the Faculty of Education in a state university in Central Anatolia. The content analysis method was used for data analysis. Findings: It was observed that pre-service teachers have moderate sensitivity to physical and cyberbullying against children; and high sensitivity to psychological, economic, and sexual violence. Implications for Research and Practice: In this research, it is seen that pre-service teachers show insensitivity to psychological and economic violence. Also, they stated that they could use punishment methods against violence. In this respect, training on violence and effective behavior change is recommended.