Perceptions of Justice in School: Forming the Future Citizen

• In Event: 65.081 - Poster Session 14
  In Poster Session: 65.081-5 - Division E: Human Development Session 2

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to understand how adolescents’ perceptions of justice influence their current behavior, perceptions of school climate, and legitimization of public authorities. Data from over 1000 students in Kenya reveal the extent to which students learn to generalize expectations created at school to society. It is hypothesized that belief in a just world (BJW) significantly predicts perception of a fair classroom climate which will predict levels of respect for and compliance with school rules/authorities. It is also hypothesized that BJW will predict perception of school rules as fair which will predict legitimization of societal authorities. Results have implications for teacher and administration awareness of how adolescents develop their sense of justice and its impact on society.

Authors

• Kendra Joy Edwards Thomas, Ball State University

• Winnie Mucherah, Ball State University