University Dropout and Transfer Intention, What Is the Influence of Resilience and Social Adaptation on the Two Types of Dropout?

Abstract

University dropout is a process of disassociation from one's studies, which may culminate in dropping out of higher education or changing degree or university. Both are the result of several variables interacting, and there are two that have not yet been sufficiently studied, but which nevertheless seem to have a great impact on the dropout process: resilience and social adaptation. To explore the power they can exert, this study attempted to analyze the approach to drop out using these two variables. The sample comprised 771 students from Spanish universities. Data analysis consists of descriptive, correlational, and regression analyses. The results showed that resilience and social adaptation were able to explain 8.9% of university dropout intention and 6% of degree dropout intention. This finding will help us to better understand the dropout problem and to implement appropriate actions to reduce it and achieve quality education, as proposed in the 2030 Agenda.