Avaliação da Esperança em Adolescentes Escolares

Hope is a positive motivational state aimed at achieving goals, influenced by individual and environmental factors, and contributes to well-being. In adolescence, hope is mentioned as a protective factor in mental health. This study aims to assess the level of hope in school adolescents. The sample included students from the 9th grade of Elementary School and the 1st year of High School in a public school. In the qualitative-quantitative study, the Herth Hope Index (HHI) was applied. The results showed a moderate level of hope in both groups of students. The findings revealed that the highest hope score was in statement 7: "I can remember happy and pleasurable times," indicating the presence of memories of good experiences that sustain hope. The lowest hope score was found in statement 6: "I am afraid of my future," alluding to students' concerns about their personal and professional future. This finding is consistent with the literature and the typical concerns of the adolescent age group. The study reiterates the importance of promoting dialogue with adolescents about current challenges and life perspectives as a mental health prevention measure.