Ecological Factors

Abstract

Young people live within a broader socio-ecological context, which influences their sense of belonging and well-being, often in the unacknowledged way. Although few studies have considered ecological factors, schools play an important role in creating an environment that is more or less supportive of a sense of belonging. This chapter aims to highlight ecological factors for consideration in improving a sense of school belonging for students. We consider the value and mission statements that a school subscribes to, policies within the school, language, staff professional development, curriculum and extra curricular activities. Although such factors might have less of a direct effect on school belonging, they create a critical context for the development and should not be ignored.