Faculty of Psychology and Education Welcomes New Students

The Faculty of Psychology and Education (FPE) welcomed its new students on 29 September at an opening session featuring the conference “Psychology of Justice: Understanding, Assessing and Intervening in Contexts of Vulnerability, Risk and Change”, delivered by Marlene Matos, Professor at the University of Minho.

During the session, the researcher discussed the importance of Victimology and the central role of the victim in understanding violence and developing more effective responses. She highlighted that protecting victims means going beyond reported crimes and seeking to understand the experiences, impacts, silences and needs of those facing situations of vulnerability.

The conference also emphasised the importance of an integrated response, grounded in knowledge and supported by regular monitoring, which can help improve intervention practices and protection policies.

Addressing the students who are now beginning their academic journey, Marlene Matos set them a challenge: to conduct research and base professional practice on empirical evidence. This commitment requires rigour, the ability to question and the validation of knowledge, all of which are essential for responsible, person-centred psychological intervention.

The session thus marked the beginning of a new academic journey, encouraging future professionals to approach Psychology with critical thinking, scientific rigour and an awareness of victims' experiences and needs.

Credits
Event Coverage and Text
Susana A. Oliveira