PREVENTION OF ETHNIC CONFLICTS THROUGH THE DEVELOPMENT OF INTERCULTURAL COMPETENCE OF TEENAGERS

Abstract

The paper discusses the possibilities of the modern school in the development of skills for effective interpersonal and inter-group interaction as a means to prevent ethical conflicts. On the basis of the conducted research the author proves the necessity of prevention of ethnic conflicts through the development of intercultural competence of adolescents. Inter-ethnic conflicts are considered as a special case of social conflict when conflicting groups have been formed on an ethnic basis. The paper presents the results of the psycho-prophylactic work aimed at the development of the components of intercultural competence, communicative tolerance and ability to accept others. The obtained data allow drawing conclusions that intercultural competence can be instilled through prevention programmes aimed at the reduction of conflict, the development of communicative skills and learning about the culture and traditions of other nations. The most significant changes are observed in such indicators of intercultural competence as the tolerance to opposing views and opinions, the ability to avoid conflict situations and understanding the peculiarities of different nations.

Keywords

• ethnic relations, intercultural competence, teenagers, conflict, cooperation