The intervention "Buddy Bench" for exploring the social relationships of primary school students with and without special educational needs and disabilities

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Published: Mar 17, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12681/hjre.39937
Keywords:
Buddy Bench social relationships social play recess special educational needs and disabilities
Victoria Politi
University of Thessaly
Kafenia Botsoglou
University of Thessaly
Zoi Sidiropoulou
University of Thessaly
Abstract

The present study examines the social relationships of primary school students with and without Special Εducational Νeeds and Disabilities (SEND), as well as their subjective well-being before and after the implementation of the "Buddy Bench" intervention in the school's outdoor area during recess. Often, these children have fewer friendships and are less accepted by their peers, which increases the likelihood of them experiencing problems in peer relationships. The “Buddy Bench” intervention was designed to enhance students' social interactions, promote their participation in social play, and reduce social isolation. The study involved 37 students from an elementary school in Thessaloniki, of which 6 had SEND and 31 were typically developing. In the first phase of the research, students' social relationships were evaluated in terms of peer acceptance, friendships within the class network, and participation in social play. After the completion of the first phase, the intervention began, followed by a new round of data collection to compare the results and assess the effectiveness of the intervention. The findings of the study showed that students with SEND were less accepted by their peers and had fewer friendships compared to typically developing students. The intervention during recess contributed positively to improving friendship skills, social relationships. The study's findings can be applied to educational practice to support children with social difficulties, highlighting the importance of friendship and the need for interventions that promote social skills and social play at school.

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