Investigating Middle School Counselors' Effects on Student Development Outcomes: A Case Study

• In Event: Counseling and Human Development

Abstract

School counselors are professional educators who are responsible for the academic, social–emotional, and career development of students. The direct and indirect services that school counselors provide are vital for students but are more vital for students with disabilities. However, the roles and responsibilities of school counselors continue to evolve. Using a qualitative single case study approach and the social cognitive theory as a theoretical framework, this study investigated the effects that middle school counselors in a Florida public school district had on student development outcomes of middle school students with disabilities. The findings from the study have significant implications for social cognitive theory and for improving policy and decision-making processes in the field of school counseling.

Authors

• Chandra Hayes, University of West Florida

• Hongwei Yang, University of West Florida