Pre-service teacher preparation: supporting students with mental health conditions in the classroom

Oliver, Greg (2023) Pre-service teacher preparation: supporting students with mental health conditions in the classroom. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

Many pre-service teacher education programs do not adequately prepare teachers to support students with mental health conditions in the classroom. The purpose of this study was to assess pre-service teachers’ knowledge and attitudes surrounding mental health. A total of 44 preservice teachers were recruited to complete a Mental Health Literacy Curriculum Resource Survey (2016). The survey’s scope covers pre-service teacher knowledge about mental health conditions, attitudes towards those with mental illness, and attitudes towards help-seeking behaviour for themselves and others. The results showed that less than half of pre-service teachers were aware of mental health literacy as a framework for learning about mental health. The results suggested that pre-service teachers in this study demonstrated less knowledge or fewer positive attitudes indicating a need to address teacher attitudes and beliefs prior to entering the classroom. Significant findings from the survey demonstrated that some pre-service teachers believe that individuals with mental illness act strange and can be dangerous and violent. Fewer positive attitudes towards those with mental illness can impact teacher willingness to support students with mental health issues. Such attitudes may exist due to less knowledge about mental health, pointing to the importance of mental health training to equip teachers with the information and tools to feel empowered and prepared prior to entering the classroom.

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