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This thesis investigates the complex interplay between learning environment factors, students coping styles and emotional and behavioural problems. Results show that students perceptions of important learning environment factors influence their reports of emotional and behavioural problems. Emotional support from teachers and perceptions of the meaningfulness of schoolwork stand out as the most important learning environment factors. Regarding the importance of coping styles, results show that the way students usually cope with school related stress effects their reports of emotional and behavioural problems. The more functional coping the students employ the less problems they report. Relationships beween coping styles and learning environment factors are also found, for example that students with much use of negative coping are less satisfied with the support they receive from their teachers. Results indicate that students through their coping styles contribute to the shaping of the learning environment.

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Elin Thuen, Dr.philos Associated Professor in educational research at Centre for Behavioural Research, University of Stavanger, Norway. Research interests; learning environment, motivation and coping in school.

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