SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGIST’S PRACTICE IN SERVING GIFTED STUDENTS: EVALUATION OF TEACHERS AND FAMILY MEMBERS

Abstract

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to identify how teachers and family members evaluate the school psychologist’s practice in a specialized educational program for gifted students. Participants included five teachers and six students’ family members. A semi-structured interview was used as instrument. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. As for the results, three categories stood out in the teachers’ evaluation: the importance of the school psychologist in serving the gifted, challenges and limitations faced by the school psychologist, and demands for expanding actions. The evaluation of family members generated two categories: the importance of school psychologist support and access to school psychologist. It is concluded that school psychologists contribute extensively in identifying the gifted and in supporting their development, carrying out practices aimed at students, teachers and families, even in the face of difficulties that prevent even broader actions.