The Japanese Journal of Psychology
Online ISSN : 1884-1082
Print ISSN : 0021-5236
ISSN-L : 0021-5236
The significance of extracurricular activities in the life of junior high school students
Shiori SumiyaTakashi Muto
Author information
JOURNAL FREE ACCESS

2001 Volume 72 Issue 2 Pages 79-86

Details
Abstract
In this study, the significance of extracurricular activities in the life of junior high school students was examined. Seventh and eighth graders participated in a two-stage questionnaire survey, administered in May and October. Based on developmental stage-environment fit theory (Eccles, Wigfield, & Schiefele, 1998), how well extracurricular activity settings fit needs of the students was analyzed. In support of the theory's hypothesis, results indicated that whether an extracurricular activity satisfied the student's developmental needs affected his/her sense of fulfillment and satisfaction in school life. In addition, the effect of seventh graders' commitment to extracurricular activities on their satisfaction of school life was stronger in October than in May. The findings suggested that for students who felt uneasy in class for whatever reasons, extracurricular activities provided an opportunity for relief.
Content from these authors
© The Japanese Psychological Association
Next article
feedback
Top