Final answer:
A school-aged child in early middle school is likely to experience a significant drop in school enjoyment after a school transition due to their increased awareness but limited understanding of complex situations, such as a family divorce.
Step-by-step explanation:
The child likely to show an especially large drop in school enjoyment after a transition, like moving to a new school or undergoing major changes within their current school environment, is often a school-aged child, specifically those in their early years of middle school. These children are in a delicate developmental stage where they are very aware of their surroundings and social dynamics yet might not fully comprehend the complexities of their experiences, such as a family divorce as mentioned by McLanahan and Sandefur (1994). During this time, social acceptance is critical, and any change in routine or environment can significantly affect a child's self-esteem and overall emotional well-being.
For students with "A" grades prior to a change, they may feel a sense of frustration and disappointment, leading to a potential decrease in motivation and performance. Conversely, students with "C" grades might experience feelings of uncertainty or indifference, affecting their engagement and efforts to improve. Those with "F" grades might initially feel indifferent or even relieved by a school change, but it may not necessarily lead to improved academic performance unless there is an intervention that addresses their specific educational and emotional needs.