Impact of Parental Support and Peer Influence on Career Decision-Making among Public Senior Secondary Schools Students in Kubau LGA of Kaduna State

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the influence of parental support and peer influence on career decision-making among Senior Secondary School (SS 2) students in Kubau Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The target population for the study consisted of SS 2 students from public secondary schools in the area, and a sample size of 450 students was selected using simple random sampling. The study employed a correlational research design to explore the relationships between the variables. The findings revealed that both parental support and peer influence had significant positive correlations with career decision-making. Specifically, higher levels of parental support were associated with more active participation in career decision-making, while peer influence also played a crucial role in guiding students' career choices. The study concluded that both family and peer networks are vital in shaping adolescents' career paths, with parental involvement being particularly significant in providing encouragement and guidance, and peers offering valuable insights and advice. Based on these findings, the study recommends enhancing parental involvement in career guidance through workshops and seminars that equip parents with the skills to support their children's career decisions. Additionally, it is recommended that schools implement peer support and counseling programs to foster a collaborative environment where students can share career-related information and advice. These interventions would help improve students' career decision-making and better prepare them for their future career paths. The study contributes to the growing body of literature on the role of family and peer influences in career development, offering practical recommendations for schools and parents to support students in making informed and confident career decisions.