Outcomes of Adolescence in Romania

Abstract

Problem Statement: In their recent monitoring report, UNESCO (2010) and UNICEF (2011) point out to adolescents as a worldwide age group at risk of being left out of school and with insufficient learning skills to realize their potential, which severely impede on their “economic self-sufficiency, and stable and gratifying personal relationships. The narrowing opportunities, the uncertainties in Romanian society and the economical depression impede on adolescents’ chances and increase the pressures on them to meet social requirements. Purpose of Study: Our study analyzes: (1) how adolescents understand the process of becoming an adult in Romania, and what criteria they have for it; (2) explore how a combination of psychological factors can interact with school adaptation to set the stage for the transition to adulthood.Research Methods: Sample consisted of 874 adolescents. The outcomes were measured using a questionnaire based on Arnett's survey and SSP (Bowen, Rose & Bowen, 2005), which was completed and adapted in Romania by the research team.Findings: Results indicate that 1) Romanian adolescents at the end of high-school consider autonomy on the top of their rankings to define adulthood, in similar ways as their fellows in the US; in preparation of adulthood, most important criteria include: financial and personal independence from parents. On the other hand, there are many differences in the rankings of these groups, mostly in the perceptions of future roles; (2) individual cognitions, school adaptation and educational attainment, hope in the future and overall quality of life are important for the transition period.Conclusions: The specific stage of emergence from adolescence to young adulthood requires a reexamination of its factors, taking into consideration the interaction of social cognitions and optimism, about future career, relationships, finances.