Longitudinal Effects of Student Mobility on Three Dimensions of Elementary School Engagement

Authors: Gruman, Diana H.; Harachi, Tracy W.; Abbott, Robert D.; Catalano, Richard F.; Fleming, Charles B.

Source: Child Development, Volume 79, Number 6, November/December 2008 , pp. 1833-1852(20)

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Abstract:

Working within the developmental science research framework, this study sought to capture a dynamic and complex view of student mobility. Second- through fifth-grade data (N = 1,003, predominantly Caucasian) were drawn from a longitudinal study, and growth curve analyses allowed for the examination of mobility effects within the context of other factors that put children at risk, including behavior problems and family stress. School changes predicted declines in academic performance and classroom participation but not positive attitude toward school. Time-varying factors such as peer acceptance and teacher support had a positive influence on the growth trajectories of child outcomes. Additionally, teacher support had a particularly strong influence on positive attitudes toward school among children who had more school changes.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8624.2008.01229.x

Affiliations: 1: University of Washington

Publication date: 2008-11-01