Adaptation to High School among Affluent Youth: Stress and Effective Coping Strategies

Funding Source: Charles Engelhard Foundation
Funding Period: 2007-2009
Principal Investigator: Marya Viorst Gwadz, Ph.D.
CDUHR Co-Investigator(s): Noelle R. Leonard, Ph.D.

Adjusting to high school requires that students develop effective strategies for adapting to multiple stressors and challenges. However, factors that promote or undermine youth’s successful adjustment to high school are not well understood. Chronic stress may play a critical role in mental health and behavioral problems including addictive disorders, risk behavior and academic performance. In a previous study of substance use among 10th grade high school students, youth in affluent suburbs were shown to have higher rates of cigarette, alcohol and marijuana use than their lower-income, inner-city counterparts. These affluent youth appear to struggle with a unique set of stressors including the intense pressure to succeed. This study extended this research to affluent youth in an urban setting. It examined the resources for stress regulation including coping skills, social support and participation in academic activities and their relationship to mental health symptoms, substance use, relationships, and adjustment to high school. In addition, it explored the effective strategies youth have developed to maintain high levels of mental health, behavioral and academic adjustment. Findings from the study will be used to inform programs developed to foster adjustment of students in high school.