Can Stability in School Processes Offset the Negative Effects of Sociopolitical Upheaval on Adolescents' Adaptation?

Investigated the effects of sociopolitical upheaval on Bulgarian youths' adaptation and perceptions of supportive environment, particularly the stability and change of schools as a protective factor in this process. High school students, surveyed twice over 2 years, perceived supportive environments as either stable or improved; saw declines in their optimism, relative stability of depression, and problem behavior; and perceived improved social maturity. (Contains references.) (SM)