From social bonds to psychological safety: Rethinking the role of school connectedness in adolescent mental health
School connectedness is essential for fostering a supportive environment that promotes adolescent mental health, emotional well-being and academic success. Psychological safety allows students to express themselves freely without fear of judgement, promoting open communication and resilience. This study highlights the limitations of focusing solely on social bonds, emphasising that positive relationships do not always mitigate challenges such as anxiety or depression, particularly amongst marginalised youth who often face discrimination. Strategies to enhance psychological safety, such as implementing anti-bullying policies, training staff in empathetic communication, establishing peer-led support programmes and encouraging student participation in governance, serve to deepen trust and emotional security within the school environment. By integrating these strategies, schools can create a more inclusive atmosphere, ultimately fostering both emotional resilience and improved educational outcomes for all students.
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