Theses and Dissertations from DePaul University

Date of Award

Spring 2026

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

College

College of Science and Health

First Advisor

Kathryn Grant

Abstract

Early adolescence is marked by increasing academic demands and the growing need for effective coping strategies. The present study examined early adolescents’ perceptions of academic stressors, use of primary control coping mechanisms, and identification of important related and unrelated adults within their lives. Participants included 96 youth ages 10-14 recruited from Chicago Public Schools in under-resourced South Side communities. Results indicated that youth reported substantial exposure to academic stressors, including teachers yelling, difficulties understanding coursework, and pressure to perform well academically. Findings revealed a significant decrease in the use of primary control coping strategies over time, despite increasing academic stress. Early adolescents most frequently identified parents and extended family members as important adults. Although stronger relationships with related adults were associated with lower academic stress at the beginning of the school year, related and unrelated adults did not significantly moderate the relationship between academic stress and primary control coping. These findings highlight the importance of understanding academic stress and supportive adult relationships in the lives of early adolescents attending under-resourced schools. Keywords: Adolescence, Stress, Coping, Mentorship, Support

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