Canadian Journal of Behavioural Science / Revue canadienne des sciences du comportement, Vol 56(2), Apr 2024, 102-112; doi:10.1037/cbs0000359
The relationship with a best friend is at the center of psychosocial development in adolescence, but has rarely been studied as an underlying factor of high school dropout. Using the self-determination theory, we tested whether the quality of this relationship can affect dropout risk through its influence on autonomous motivation, controlled motivation and amotivation in the school setting. The sample consisted of 225 students (67% female) from two French-speaking public schools in underprivileged areas in the third year of secondary school. Data was collected using a one-time correlational design via self-reported questionnaires. A structural equation analysis with indirect effect testing via resampling (bootstrapping) revealed that autonomous motivation was a mediator of the link between the quality of the relationship with a best friend and a low risk of school dropout. Furthermore, an unexpectedly positive association was observed between the quality of the friendship and controlled motivation. However, this type of motivation was associated with a high risk of school dropout. Finally, amotivation was a marginally significant mediator of the link between a low-quality friendship and high dropout risk. This study highlights the importance of considering the role of best friends and distinguishing between the three types of academic motivation to optimize the development of dropout prevention programs. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved)