Valditara dismisses proposal for mandatory school psychologists

A political dispute has emerged in Italy regarding a proposal to introduce mandatory monthly psychologist sessions in schools. The initiative, presented by Lega member Armando Siri and deputy Giorgia Latini, aims to provide students with tools for emotional management and crisis prevention, starting with high schools and potentially expanding to primary and middle schools.

Education Minister Giuseppe Valditara has publicly distanced himself from the proposal, labeling the idea of the “psychologization of all students” as “nonsense.” This stance has caused friction within the Lega party and drawn criticism from others who view the move as a “woke drift” or an attempt to “medicalize” the school system.

In response to the Minister's comments, educator and writer Enrico Galiano challenged Valditara to experience the daily difficulties of managing a middle school classroom. Galiano argued that psychological support is not merely for those in crisis but is a tool for personal improvement and healthy social relationships.