ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the theoretical framework used to develop the construct of school connectedness. It discusses each of the three major theories (attachment theory, social control theory and social development model) that contributed to the development of the school connectedness construct as well as the role these theories play in differing fields of research. Currently, there is a variety of terms used to describe various aspects of school connectedness. Research in this area spans the fields of educational psychology, psychology, sociology, health sciences and education. Because school connectedness is a term synonymous with school attachment, school bonding, school climate and school engagement, the term itself has not been defined and is used synonymously these fields of research. The most comprehensive definition of school connectedness, outlined by the field of health sciences, focuses on the extent to which a student feels that adults and peers in their academic environment care about them as individuals, their academic success and their overall well-being.
