Psychological profiles in the vocational and technical education: formation and actions in federal institutes

Abstract Objective This study aims to characterize the psychological profiles of Psychologists who are active in the Vocational and Technological Education in Brazil. Method A total of 93 psychologists from Federal Institutes participated in the study. The data were collected in a survey online about these professionals’ education and practice. Results The results indicated the prevalence of psychologists active in the Northeast region, aged between 31 and 40 years, with education level up to specialization and having up to five years of work experience in their relevant institutions. With what concerns their activity, psychologists monitor students education trajectory and the education processes with the teachers. They also participate in initiatives to help the permanence and inclusion of the students in the academic setting. Conclusion The challenge facing these professionals is the construction of initiatives based on human development processes which, in a critical and broader way, comprehend and value the intersections between academic and professional development that are present in vocational education.