---

Adolescent boys often experience academic, psychological, and social problems in school. One line of inquiry suggests that the problem may be related to the quality of the boys psychological experience, specifically their sense of belonging in the school community. This paper describes the process and consequences of an action research study designed to foster a greater sense of belonging among 10 sophomore boys who were identified as at risk. In this study, the guidance director, in a suburban school district, collaborated with 2 counselors and a social worker to initiate actions with boys who were determined to be at risk due to poor attendance, academic difficulties, discipline problems, or social isolation, as noted by staff. The boys who participated were representative of different levels of achievement and various social groups within in the school.

---

Blidi Shakeshaft, B.S., University of West Indies; M.A., St. John s University, M.S. Ed., St. John s University, P.D. Irvine University

---