INTERPLAY BETWEEN DEFICIT IDEOLOGIES AND LEADERS’ SELF-EFFICACY IN DROPOUT PREVENTION: A CASE STUDY OF U.S. URBAN HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPALS

Abstract

Researchers examined principals’ perceptions of their abilities and efforts to prevent dropouts in their diverse high schools. Two concepts, self-efficacy and deficit thinking, were used to frame principals’ beliefs. A large urban school district in the southwest region of the country served as the backdrop. The student population was exceptionally diverse. Three high school principals having diverse backgrounds participated. However, in general, the principals interpreted the problem through the lens of their personal background. A sense of empathy was noted throughout their commentaries. A sense of empathy emerged throughout their commentary. Implications for school leaders are discussed