Student perceptions are a pivotal point of measurement for understanding why classroom learning environments are effective. Yet there is some evidence that student perceptions cannot be reliably aggregated at the classroom level and, instead, could represent idiosyncratic experiences of students. The present study examines whether heterogeneity in…

Which occupation to pursue is one of the more consequential decisions people make and represents a key developmental task. Yet the underlying developmental processes associated with either individual or group differences in occupational choices are still not well understood. This study contributes toward filling this gap, focusing in particular on…

Introduces this issue's topic of schooling and adolescent development, noting that much work is needed in the understanding of the changes adolescents experience during this age period. Describes the articles in this issue, which focus on different psychological characteristics of early adolescents, their relationships with others, and how those…

Investigated parenting behavior, parent/adolescent relationship, and adolescent attitudes and behaviors in three family types. Results showed minimal support for the hypothesis that welfare is negatively related to family processes and adolescent attitudes and behavior, although mothers receiving welfare reported fewer effective parent-management…

Examined relations among parenting dimensions and adolescents' occupational aspirations related to academics and sports. Found that parents' values predicted youths' values directly in the academic domain. Fathers' behaviors mediated the relation between parents' and youths' sports values. Identification was directly related to adolescents'…

Studied relationships between adolescents' perceptions of their middle school (school goal structures, autonomy provisions, positive teacher regard) and changes in academic motivation, achievement, and psychological adjustment. Found perceptions to be important predictors; for example, perception of positive teacher regard and an emphasis on…

Two studies examined elementary school students' self-beliefs over time and how the transition to middle school affected those beliefs. Found that self-esteem did not change during elementary school but decreased following the middle school transition. Competence beliefs and beliefs about the usefulness and importance of different activities…

Examined how young adolescents perceived the opportunities provided by middle school teachers and staff and how such opportunities related to changes in academic and social-emotional functioning over time. Found that specific instructional, interpersonal, and organizational dimensions of middle school life were associated in important ways with…