This comparison study examines how socio-economic, parental and
school perceptions relate to the motivation, coping strategies
and academic achievement of students at risk of dropping out of
school. The aim of the study was to compare and contrast
students at-risk with typical and resilient students to derive a
profile of an academically resilient student. Bronfenbrenner’s
theory of development underpinned the study. It postulates that:
a) human development and socialisation is context-dependent; b)
parenting and school influences have an impact upon adolescent
outcomes; c) socioeconomic factors and school environments
affect development via socialising and psychological processes;
d) parenting processes, which predict both academic achievement
and psychological adjustment are moderated by socio-economic and
family structure variables; and e) congruence perceived in two
contexts strengthens adolescent outcomes. The sample comprised
1127 students from Years 8 to 10 attending three North
Queensland urban state