ANALYSIS OF THE PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT OF PARENTAL ABSENCE AT LICEU AUGUSTO KATCHITIOPOLOLO DO BAILUNDO

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the psychological impact of parental absence at the Augusto Katchitiópolo Rei EKUKUI IV High School in Bailundo, understanding how this reality influences the emotional, social and educational well-being of adolescents. As a data collection technique, a descriptive and exploratory research of a qualitative nature was used involving a sample of 39 students, who answered semi-structured questionnaires with multiple choice, open and closed questions and direct observations. The results reveal a significant prevalence of adolescents between 15 and 18 years old, with emphasis on the male gender (72%) and a predominance of 12th grade students (64%). Among them, only 44% live with both parents; the rest live with only one guardian or live alone, reflecting more fragile family structures. Parental absence directly affects the self-esteem of 62% of students, concentration (54%) and school performance (77%), in addition to triggering feelings of sadness, anxiety and demotivation. Although 69% of adolescents demonstrate emotional resilience, many face emotional difficulties, with family dialogue (49%) and support from friends (21%) being the main coping strategies. Thus, the pent-up demand for psychological support at school stands out, desired by 41% of students. Students' suggestions include psychological counseling (46%), support groups (36%) and greater teacher involvement (18%). It is concluded that parental absence has generated significant impacts on student development, highlighting the urgent need for educational policies and institutional strategies that integrate psychological and emotional support into the school environment.