Meanings of Living in Lodgings During Senior High School

Studies show that senior high school students living in lodgings (away from home) when attending high school are vulnerable to stress and mental health problems. Moving away from home at the age of 15-16 is a transition that might affect adolescents' well-being. The aim of this study is to explore the experience of living in lodgings during senior high school. In-depth interviews were conducted with 21 Norwegian lodgers of both genders between the ages of 16-18. Interviews were analyzed according to a phenomenological hermeneutical approach. Four main themes were identified: (a) striving between controlling time and being controlled by time, (b) striving between finding comfort in being alone and feeling left alone, (c) striving between being independent and being taken care of, and (d) striving between leaving and finding home. The findings illuminate many challenges experienced by lodgers. A raised awareness and preventive initiatives from school nurses are recommended.