Abstract

The purpose of this study was to reveal the problems perceived by fourth grade students in their own lives. The research was carried out with a basic interpretative qualitative research design. This method was used in order to examine in depth the vital problems perceived by fourth grade students. For the study, data were collected in the spring term of 2016-2017 academic year. The appropriate/accidental sampling method was used for data collection. Data were obtained from 206 fourth grade students of a primary school in the province of Ümraniye, Istanbul. The data were analyzed by using the content analysis technique. Within the scope of this research, the findings are grouped under three themes; the problems that the students have had the most in their lives, their families and their schools. From the data obtained, the same quotations were made with descriptive analysis technique. It was found that the students who participated in the study perceived the problem of violence, family relations and communication in relation to their own family life. Concerning the school, the participating students mostly perceive problem with their friends, teachers and least about school management. It was concluded that participant students mostly have difficulty in solving and perceiving problems related to course achievement/mathematics/exams, violence, communication, less about personality traits, and at least education and death problems.

Key words: Student problems, elementary school, fourth grade, problem solving, family.