An examination of hope and future expectations during adolescence in relation to sources of social support: The roles of family, peers, and teachers

Abstract

The primary objective of this study is to examine the mediating role of hope in the effect of adolescents’ perceived sources of social support (family, friends, and teacher support) on their future expectations. A correlational cross-sectional model was used in the study. The study sample consisted of 643 high school students enrolled in the Eastern Anatolia Region during the 2025–2026 academic year, selected using a convenience sampling method. Research data were collected using the Personal Information Form, the Comprehensive Hope Scale, the Adolescent Future Expectations Scale, and the Revised Perceived Social Support Scale. The data analysis was conducted using analyses of differences in demographic variables and a path analysis model established using the observed variables. The findings revealed that levels of hope and future expectations showed significant differences based on certain demographic variables. Furthermore, it was determined that perceived support from family, friends, and teachers significantly and positively influenced adolescents levels of hope, while levels of hope significantly and positively predicted future expectations. The path analysis revealed that hope plays a mediating role in the relationship between perceived support from family, friends, and teachers and expectations for the future. The research findings highlight that strengthening adolescents’ levels of hope and supporting their social support resources are of critical importance in helping them develop positive future expectations. It is believed that these findings will make significant contributions to protective and preventive practices in the field of psychological counseling and guidance.