THE CHALLENGES FACED BY SOCIOLOGY TEACHERS IN DEALING WITH HIGH SCHOOL TEENAGERS: A CALLING OR PROFESSIONALISM? Grace Prima Apriani Sihombing(a*), Silvia Annisa(b*), Christy Audina (c*), Wawan Rusmanto (d*)
a&d Department of Sociology, Universitas Terbuka
b&c Department of Sociology, Universitas Sumatera Utara
Abstract
Sociology teachers at the senior high school level face unique challenges in guiding adolescents, particularly when balancing the inner calling of teaching with the demands of professional standards. This article examines how sociology teachers in South Tangerang City respond to the social changes of adolescents in the digital era, where social media, popular culture, and identity pressures dominate. Using a qualitative approach through a case study of the MGMP Sociology forum, the study finds that teachers often experience a dilemma between moral idealism and administrative obligations. The findings highlight the need to redefine the professionalism of sociology teachers so they can deliver relevant, humanistic, and adaptive learning experiences that address the needs of the younger generation.
