The alienated student: An effort to motivate at the junior high level

This research was designed to develop and evaluate a program for “alienated” junior high school boys. Specific goals included attempts to increase motivation, cooperation, and the desire to remain in school beyond the age of 16. Initial screening consisted of teachers' behavioral ratings on 125 boys. Of these, 13 were selected for a special school program involving work projects and supportive counseling, and were matched with 13 control mates on selected indices of behavior and personality. After a full school year, positive changes were noted in self-reported personality measures and school achievement. While a six-month follow-up tended to document these changes, some regression was noted by the end of a year, especially in terms of community relations.