Dominated students had independence but insufficient support, struggled with their families, had difficulty reaching out or using support, and consistently relied on their peers for most of their needs. These factors often led to emotional distress and poor decision-making. These students are at the most immediate risk and may appear to be the most troubled, as their struggles are often acted out in a more public fashion. The two students who failed to complete the study were classified in this category. The lack of both self-esteem and awareness of existing resources prevents these students from accessing support.
Adults can also be very helpful as positive role models.
Conversely, Parent Dominated students had insufficient independence. They tended not to be well connected with their peers, and their parents often made decisions for them and dominated their relationships with school personnel. While these students face fewer overt struggles, they may have difficulty building self-directed adult lives. Thus, these students may have fewer experiences on which to base plans and dreams for adult life, and feel less control over their futures. Try to create opportunities for supported independence, and be available to talk to students about their experiences.