The Observatory of violence in schools (OVE). Early detection of factors of vulnerability and the prevention of violence

Abstract

The approach taken by the Observatory of violence in schools (OVE) is presented, along with a summary of part of the data obtained during the 2007-2008 academic year and some of the content of the discussions held with teaching staff and the lines of intervention set up at participant centres. The detection of factors of vulnerability in the relations arising within the group constitutes a change of viewpoint of the phenomenon of violence at schools due to the analysis focusing on the relational process of the group rather than individual or small-group actions. The identification of the causes of this vulnerability provides evidence of a series of representations, fears and stereotypes that condition the lives of the group from an early age. Many infant and adolescent attitudes are a reflection of the society they live in, hence the need to broaden the analysis and take advantage of the opportunities offered by work among teachers, at the core of staff groups, and that which is done in the communities that schools are located in.