Peer Influence, Family Influence, Academic Difficulties and Gender Differences as Agents of Career Indecisiveness of Senior High School Students in Ghana

Abstract

This research aimed at finding out how peer influence, family influence, and academic difficulties affect the career decision-making process among senior high school students in Ghana. Employing a descriptive survey design, the study involved 450 students selected through multi-stage sampling. Data collection utilized a Likert-type scale questionnaire. Analysis and presentation of findings relied on Descriptive Statistics. Results indicated that peer influence, family influence, and academic difficulties collectively played significant roles in causing career indecisiveness among senior high school students in Ghana. Females were affected more by the agents of career indecisiveness. The study recommends that school counsellors remain attentive to peer influence, family influence, and academic difficulties, offering appropriate guidance and counselling to aid informed and effective career decision-making among senior high school students. Gender specific characteristics and behaviour must be critically explored in catering for the diverse career counselling needs of gender groups.