TEACHERS’ PERSPECTIVES ON SOCIAL CHANGES AMONG MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS

<doi>10.24250/jpe/2/2025/VC/DRC/</doi>

Abstract

The rapid social changes of the last decades, generated by
digitalization, globalization and changes in family values,
have profoundly transformed the behaviors and
interpersonal relationships of secondary school students.
This study explores teachers' perceptions of these
transformations and how they influence school dynamics,
motivation and socio-emotional development of students.
The research, of mixed type, was carried out on a sample
of 85 secondary school teachers, from three counties in
Romania. The tools used were a semi-structured
questionnaire and a focus-group interview, designed to
capture perceptions of students' behaviors, the relationship
with the family, the influence of the online environment and
changes in the classroom climate. The results highlight an
increase in individualism, a decrease in emotional
resilience and a growing difficulty in managing collegial
relationships. Teachers emphasize the need for educational
interventions focused on emotional intelligence, empathy,
and cooperation. The study contributes to understanding
how social transformations affect the school environment
and provides recommendations for strengthening an
education centered on positive social values.