NCJ Number
224914
Journal
Journal of Adolescent Research Volume: 23 Issue: 6 Dated: November 2008 Pages: 722-744
Date Published
November 2008
Length
23 pages
Annotation
The objective of this research is to investigate the impact of school climate and environment on the attitudes of young adolescents toward their schools in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
Abstract
Results of the research reveal notable patterns regarding student’s perceptions of their schools. First, relationships with the other people inside the school influence young adolescents the most. The primary focus of student attention when at school appears to be on their peers, providing both positive and negative influences for these students. In addition to peers, relationships with teachers are a second predictor of school satisfaction for students. Third, the anonymity associated with school transitioning to larger more populated schools creates tremendous stress for young adolescents. Lastly, although school architectural plans and age of building do not play a significant role in student satisfaction, other elements associated with the physical space do play a role. Prior research has found a significant impact of school climate on the healthy development of adolescents. This article investigates the impact of different school models (middle school, K-8, and the United Kingdom secondary) on young adolescents’ perceptions of their school climates. It specifically analyzes the importance of people and place in the positive and negative attitudes that middle-level students develop about their schools. The study was conducted during the 2004-2005 academic year. Table, notes, and references