Description
The project addresses aggression and violence in Roma and mixed schools in Kyustendil District. The project aims at helping the psychological and social adaptation of adolescents at risk (mainly Roma) through the rhythm of percussion instruments. First, a kick-off press conference will be held with all the stakeholders (the schools, Roma NGOs, reporters, education and local authorities) to promote the initiative. Second, 5 “worst” classes will be identified in 5 schools in Kyustendil District. Third, students will have their entry and exit levels of aggressive behavior measured using Eysenck Personality Questionnaire and Buss—Durkee Aggression Scales. Fourth, 50 rhythm sessions will be held at the 5 schools, reducing violence and developing concentration and auditory- motor coordination. The project will benefit the students and schools involved, the Roma minority, local authorities and community in general. The partner will help with its contacts among the Roma community.
Summary of project results
The project addressed aggression and violence in 5 Roma and mixed schools in Kyustendil District and helped improve by means of the rhythm therapy the situation of aggression and violence in those schools. The project implementation helped the psychological and social adaptation of young people with risky behaviour facing problems with keeping discipline, managing their emotions and aggression in school. The tests carried out by a psychologist at the project entry and exit showed that aggression dropped in four out of five schools. The average group values dropped which means that the group environment became calmer and relations more tolerant. The number of highly aggressive children dropped significantly. The depression rate also dropped in the group of adolescents. The project activities included 51 rhythm sessions, 3 public events, 9 publications in the media, 3 reports, 2 trainings, a project website, a video and media coverage of the final event. More than 100 children and young people, including from Roma background, from 5 schools in Kyustendil District took part in the project. The project partner, Liberal Alternative for Roma Civil Unity Association (LARGO), was actively involved in the project. For more information about the project, see:
https://therhythmproject.wordpress.com/
Summary of bilateral results