This dissertation examines the relationship between self-efficacy, grit, and adverse adolescent backgrounds among educational leaders in the Texas public school system, focusing on how economic disparities and systemic biases shape these psychological traits. Utilizing a quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional, and descriptive approach, the study surveyed 288 public school principals using the General Self-Efficacy and Grit scales. The primary aim was to assess whether educational leaders' adverse adolescent experiences significantly affect their passion, perseverance, and self-efficacy. Data analysis, conducted through a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), explored differences in these psychological constructs based on combinations of punitive and familial factors experienced in childhood. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]