Peer pressure as a predictor of career decision-making among high school students in Midlands Province, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Career decision-making, particularly among high school students, is something that all students should carefully consider since it has ripple effects in one’s life. This paper presents an overview of peer pressure as a factor that influences career decision-making among high school students in Midlands Province, Zimbabwe. A quantitative research approach was used in the current study. A survey design that made use of questionnaires in collecting data was used. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse data. A total of 1,010student participants and 20 career guidance teachers who were randomly selected participated in this study. Results from the study indicated that students are influenced by their peers in making career decisions in a number of ways. Chief among the predictors were peer advice, encouragement and peer education. However, students denied that they seek validation of their career decisions from their peers. The study recommended that a similar national study be carried out to enable generalisation of the results to a wider community. Keywords: Peer influence, career choices, decision-making, Midlands Province.