Psychosocial Support Training for Children in Vulnerable Conditions Completed in Six Provinces under the Özne Çocuk Project

The dissemination training titled “Developing a Psychosocial Support Programme for Children in Vulnerable Conditions” within the scope of the Özne Çocuk Project was successfully completed in Bursa, Erzurum, İzmir, Kahramanmaraş, Mersin, and Samsun. The training aimed to raise awareness of the psychosocial needs of children living in vulnerable conditions and to develop effective support programs.

On the first day of the training, participants learned the basic principles of psychosocial support programmes for children and examined the impact of socioeconomic, family, and environmental vulnerabilities on children’s psychosocial well-being. Topics such as poverty, conflict, displacement, abuse, and neglect, and their negative effects on children were discussed. Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory was used to explore the role of the environment in children’s developmental processes. Key topics included ensuring safety, trustworthiness, transparency, empowering children, and amplifying their voices. Afternoon sessions covered stress and anxiety management, building self-esteem and confidence , and communication skills. Techniques for identifying problems and solving them to guide children more effectively were also discussed.

The second day of the training focused on building psychological resilience, healthy relationships, and self-care practices, with strategies developed to cope with challenges and maintain long-term motivation. Family sessions included information on providing positive feedback, effective communication, and setting healthy boundaries.

The training was designed in accordance with adult learning principles and employed practical methods that encouraged active participation. At the conclusion of the training, participants had the opportunity to develop new strategies for working with children, while also enhancing their ability to foster long-term psychological resilience and maintain motivation. The programme will guide professionals working in the field of children’s rights on providing more effective and empathetic approaches to children in vulnerable conditions.