IMPACT OF PARENTAL INFLUENCE ON CAREER ASPIRATION AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN KWAMI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, GOMBE STATE
Abstract
The transition from adolescence to adulthood is marked by the critical decision of choosing a career path. This study investigates the impact of parental influence on the career aspirations of secondary school students in Kwami Local Government Area (LGA), Gombe State. Using a descriptive survey design, the research explores dimensions of influence such as parental educational background, occupational status, and direct verbal encouragement. Data were collected from 200 adolescents across selected schools using the "Parental Influence and Career Aspiration Questionnaire (PICAQ)." The findings indicate a significant relationship between parental desires and students' professional choices, with many adolescents gravitating toward "prestige" careers (Medicine, Law, Engineering) to satisfy family expectations. The study concludes that while parental support is vital, overbearing influence can lead to career mismatch and recommends that parents be integrated into school-based career counseling programs.
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