School dropout tendency in Ukraine: protective and risk factors

Abstract

This master thesis seeks to investigate protective and risk factors influencing school dropout, a globally significant issue. This study uses data from a prior longitudinal study conducted in Ukraine that surveyed 2,045 adolescents spanning over two academic years. The sample was generated from 200 schools in eight provinces through systematic random sampling. It is inclusive of students who are involved in conflict-affected regions to ensure diversity. The research makes use of a self-report questionnaire which was developed based on an extensive review and consultations with local experts, which incorporates scales that will elicit exposure to adversities, adaptation processes, and developmental outcomes. Ethical issues have been dealt by appropriate permissions as well as ensuring participant anonymity voluntary participation. Results showed that Mental Health Problems and Direct Conflict Exposure could predict School Dropout Tendency in Eastern Ukraine. Furthermore, the inclusion of some protective factors like School Connectedness and Safe Psychosocial Environment could improve the predictability of the initial model. Additional factors that could affect School Dropout Tendency were Neglect and Direct Conflict Exposure as contextual risk factors and Substance Use, Depression, Unsafe Sexual Behavior and Learning as individual risk factors. Finally, School and Family Connectedness could act as protective factors for School Dropout Tendency.