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- Summary of Dialogue | Ban Papia: Meeting Needs, Creating Impact
Summary of Dialogue | Ban Papia: Meeting Needs, Creating Impact
During a dialogue at the University of Aruba, organized by Liesje Proveyer and the Research Center, the psychological needs of vocational students were explored, based on her master’s thesis and study “Psychological Needs and Well-being Through the Eyes of Vocational Students in Aruba.“ The dialogue focused on how vocational students experience autonomy, competence, and relatedness, and how these factors affect their motivation, family relationships, and overall well-being in Aruba’s cultural context.
Key Points:
Methodology: 422 students aged 16–25 participated in a questionnaire, and 33 students took part in interviews. The survey measured satisfaction with autonomy, competence, and relatedness, with average scores of 4.6–4.7.
Main Findings:
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- Many students feel they lack autonomy and opportunities to express themselves.
- Aruba’s small, close-knit society provides support but also limits personal freedom and privacy.
- Family support, guidance from teachers, and opportunities for personal growth were identified as positive influences.
- Different student groups were identified:
- Seeking Direction (42%) – lack clarity and guidance, low motivation.
- Ambitious (36%) – motivated but seeking support and space for autonomy.
- Negative Home Environment (21%) – lack of support and guidance.
Conclusions:
- Creating supportive environments and spaces for self-expression is crucial.
- Guiding students to know themselves and make autonomous decisions strengthens well-being and motivation.
- Support, non-imposing guidance, and a focus on autonomy and personal development are key for Aruban youth to achieve their goals and professional well-being.
Click here for full summary in Papiamento.