Over-adaption and Autonomy Satisfaction and Frustration of Japanese Junior High School Students

This study aimed to verify the relationship between over-adaptation and autonomy satisfaction and frustration among Japanese junior high school students. An online survey was conducted with 514 students. Results showed a positive relationship between over-adaptive behavior (other-orientation and self-inhibition toward parents, peers, and teachers) and autonomy frustration. Furthermore, cluster analysis and ANOVA confirmed that two clusters interpreted as (1) over-adaptation toward parents, peers, and teachers and (2) over-adaptation in school contexts (over-adaptation toward peers and teachers) showed higher autonomy frustration. The relationship between over-adaptation and the need for autonomy, as well as considerations for future studies, are discussed.