Abstract
A useful approach to group differences in adolescent concerns is to consider the distinction between instrumental values and more intrinsic and terminal values. Which of these is emphasised might be expected to depend on the major life settings of the adolescents concerned. In this study, the major settings of the 15- to 18-year-old participants were taken to be the educational context or course type—mainstream Year 11, transition program in school, prevocational programs in colleges of technical and further education, and community youth support schemes. Gender differences were also examined. The study examined differences in the nature of the concerns expressed, the reasons given for these concerns, skills needed for coping, ability to cope, problems encountered, and sources of help and hindrance. The findings suggested a course type culture in which patterns of expectations and priorities of concern are developed. Course type setting appeared to influence whether young people show more concern with immediacy of needs, proximal plans and getting a job, as distinct from distal plans, personal development, and relationships. There were also associated gender differences.
