I fattori di rischio e protettivi al disagio scolastico in adolescenza: l'analisi multivariata dei dati su uno studio longitudinale

This work explores the evolution of psychological variables that evaluate adolescents’ experience of school aiming to study (and prevent) drop-out. Data from a 3-wave longitudinal panel (N = 235, measured at 12, 15 and 17 years of age) were used to estimate a structural equations model with the same observed variables, scales adapted from another longitudinal study (Borricua Chidren Interview, Bird, 2006), in the three waves as indicators of risk or protection factors with the factors linked over time predicting school experience of the adolescents. A specific questionnaire, S.I.D (Self Inventory in-school drop-out) was constructed to probe the reasons for feeling uneasy at school (covert drop-out). The resulting structural equation model identified 3 scales - self-esteem, coping and social supports- as protective, and 4 scales - association with deviant peers, delinquency behaviour/attitude, and sensations seeking – as risk factors for covert drop-out in S.I.D. The loadings of the observed variables vary over time. The role of relational variables is determinant at 17 years, when peer relationships are obviously relevant, both in term of risk (deviant peers), and in term of protection (social support). Implications for current practice and future research are discussed for understanding the etiology of in-school drop-out and adopting specific prevention strategy to improve the quality of school experience during adolescence.