Grade Expectations: Predictive Factors of Academic Entitlement

Abstract

Predictive factors of academic entitlement were explored in this study. Using Object Relations Theory for guidance as well as current literature on entitlement in students, perfectionism, locus of control, self-esteem, perceived parenting style, and social desirability were chosen as five possible predictive factors of academic entitlement. Undergraduate students were given a survey providing scores on each factor. The data was analyzed and the findings discussed. The results suggest that high scores on measures of perfectionism, authoritarian parenting, and permissive parenting predict high scores on a measure of academic entitlement. Recommendations for staff and faculty who deal with students face-to-face are made.