Date

12-16-2025

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Angela Rathkamp

Keywords

nurturing mature adolescents’ psycho-educational program, social-emotional learning, adolescents, mental health, emotional regulation, interpersonal skills, qualitative research

Disciplines

Psychology

Abstract

Adolescence is a critical period marked of development marked by increased emotional and social challenges that shapes adolescents’ future well-being. This Phase I qualitative action research pilot study examined the effectiveness of the Nurturing Mature Adolescents (N.M.A.) psychoeducational program in enhancing emotional regulation and interpersonal skills among middle school students. Guided by Bandura’s Social Learning Theory, nine participants aged 11–14 engaged in a four-week intervention featuring structured lessons, observational learning, and self-efficacy strategies. Pre- and post-interviews and demographic surveys were analyzed using descriptive, In Vivo, process, emotion, and evaluation coding methods. Findings revealed consistent improvements in emotional awareness, self-regulation, communication, empathy, and problem-solving. Participants reported increased confidence, stronger relationships, and the ability to apply coping strategies in real-life contexts. Despite minor dissatisfaction among a one participant, results demonstrated the program’s feasibility, acceptability, and potential to foster social-emotional competence. This study highlights the importance of using a psychoeducational program to help adolescents grow socially and emotionally, in addition to providing a foundation for larger Phase II research.

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