Art and prevention of addictive behaviors in school: perceptions of teachers of Primary Education of the Prefecture of Achaia

Eleftheria Pappa¹ & Avgoustinos Ladas²

1. Social Worker, Med Adult Education, PHD(c) University of Patras
2. Statisticien, PHD(c) University of Patras

DOI: https://doi.org/10.57160/RNWM8863

Abstract

Aim of this research was to investigate the perceptions of teachers of Primary Education of the Prefecture of Achaia regarding the implementation of programs to prevent the occurrence of addictive behaviors in Primary Schools and the role of art as a tool for the implementation of such programs. The study followed the quantitative methodology. Specifically, it is a sample survey using a questionnaire. 109 teachers of Primary Education of the Prefecture of Achaia participated in the research. The results of the research showed that teachers have a high degree of awareness on the issue of the manifestation of addictive behaviors of students. They also have positive attitude towards a holistic type of school system policy on the issue of prevention and they believe that art can successfully be used as a prevention tool. The gender and years of work of teachers do not seem to affect their perceptions while their educational level as well as their training outside of their basic studies in matters related to prevention seem to affect their perceptions regarding the implementation of addiction prevention programs and the role of art as an effective prevention tool.

The findings of the research highlight the need to design a specific educational policy related to prevention, through the implementation of innovative programs that use tools such as art, thus recognizing the important role played by the school environment as a strong protective factor to prevent the use of psychoactive substances.

Key Words: Prevention, Addictive Behaviors, Art, Education, Teachers’ Training