1.1 Introduction
Career choice is the process of selecting a profession or occupation that aligns with an individual's interests, skills, values, and life goals (Umar, 2019). It is one of the most important decisions a person makes in life because it influences not only economic stability but also self-fulfillment, social identity, and long-term satisfaction. According to Adeyemo (2020), the choice of career is a developmental milestone that begins during adolescence and is shaped by both internal and external factors, including personality traits, academic performance, peer influence, societal expectations, and family background. Among these factors, parental influence is often regarded as the most powerful determinant of students' career decisions, especially in traditional societies where family values are deeply embedded.
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Career choice is a significant aspect of human development, determining not only one's professional direction but also influencing social identity, financial stability, and life satisfaction. According to Umar (2019), career choice refers to the process of selecting a profession or occupation that aligns with an individual's interests, abilities, and aspirations. It is a critical decision that often takes shape during adolescence a stage when individuals begin to form personal values, interests, and future ambitions. However, in many cases, this decision is not made independently, as various external factors such as peers, teachers, cultural expectations, and particularly parents play a vital role in shaping students' career aspirations and eventual choices.
Okafor (2020) asserted that parents serve as the primary agents of socialization, influencing their children's outlook on life and their perception of what constitutes a desirable or successful career. From early childhood, parental guidance, expectations, and values shape how children perceive different occupations. For instance, parents with higher educational backgrounds often encourage their children to pursue careers that require advanced education, while those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may emphasize careers that promise quick financial returns (Adenuga, 2019). Similarly, Eze (2021) affirmed that in many African societies, including Nigeria, parental influence on career choice is deeply rooted in cultural beliefs and social norms that prioritize certain professions such as medicine, law, and engineering over others.
Adeyemo (2020) reported that most Nigerian parents tend to base their expectations on personal experiences, perceived job security, and societal prestige rather than on their children's interests or talents. This creates a form of indirect pressure that may lead students to choose careers that do not align with their aptitudes or passions. On the other hand, Akinbote and Adeoye (2022) stated that some parents adopt a more supportive approach by offering guidance, exposure, and financial support without imposing their preferences. Nonetheless, even this supportive influence can sometimes be misinformed when parents lack awareness of emerging career opportunities in today's evolving labor market.
Oladejo (2018) contends that the absence of proper career counseling in schools exacerbates the problem of parental influence, as students rely primarily on their parents' advice when making crucial academic and career decisions. Many Nigerian secondary schools lack professional guidance counselors who can help students assess their interests and competencies. Consequently, students are left vulnerable to parental expectations that may not always reflect the realities of the modern economy. This situation often results in students pursuing courses or careers that lead to dissatisfaction, low performance, and in some cases, career abandonment.
Olaoye and Hassan (2022) affirmed that family background, socioeconomic status, and parental level of education are key determinants in shaping students' career aspirations. Parents with higher income and educational attainment are more likely to expose their children to a wider range of career options, while those from disadvantaged backgrounds may encourage their children to pursue occupations perceived as financially stable. Moreover, societal perception of “prestigious” jobs continues to shape how parents and students define success, thereby influencing career choice decisions (Adesina, 2021).
In contemporary society, the dynamics of the labor market are changing rapidly due to globalization, technological advancement, and the rise of new industries. Despite these changes, many parents still cling to traditional career ideals, which may no longer align with the needs of the modern economy (Eze, 2021). Consequently, students often experience tension between following parental expectations and pursuing personal interests. This study is set against the backdrop of understanding the extent to which parental influence shapes the career choices of senior secondary school students, how parental expectations and socioeconomic factors contribute to these decisions, and the implications for students' educational and professional development.
1.3 Statement of Problems
In many Nigerian households, parents tend to impose career choices on their children based on their own experiences, social status, perceived job security, or economic prospects rather than the individual capabilities and inclinations of the child (Adenuga, 2019). This parental dominance often leads to conflicts, confusion, and dissatisfaction among students who are unable to pursue careers that match their talents or passions. For instance, some parents still hold the traditional belief that prestigious professions such as medicine, law, or engineering are the only paths to success, thereby neglecting emerging fields like information technology, entrepreneurship, or creative arts that also offer viable opportunities in today's globalized world (Eze, 2021).
On the other hand, some parents adopt a more supportive and flexible approach by providing guidance without enforcing their personal preferences. These parents encourage exploration, expose their children to different career opportunities, and help them make informed decisions. Nevertheless, even this positive influence may sometimes lead to unintentional bias when parents' advice is based on limited awareness of current labor market dynamics or the evolving nature of modern careers (Akinbote & Adeoye, 2022).
Furthermore, the challenge becomes more pronounced in senior secondary school, a stage when students are expected to make subject selections and career choices that shape their future professional trajectory. Many students, however, find themselves at a crossroads, struggling to balance personal aspirations with parental expectations. This tension can result in anxiety, poor academic motivation, indecisiveness, and, in some cases, eventual career dissatisfaction (Oladejo, 2018). It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to examine the influence of parents on the choice of career among senior secondary school students.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The main aim of this study is to assess the impact of parental influence on the choice of career among senior secondary school students. To achieve this aim, the study has the following objectives:
- To investigate how parental educational background and socioeconomic status affect students' career decisions.
- To examine the extent of parental influence on students' choice of career.
- To determine the role of parental expectations in shaping students' academic and career aspirations.
- To identify the challenges students face when their career interests conflict with parental preferences.
- To assess the role of career guidance and counseling in reducing parental pressure and supporting independent career choices.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- How does parental educational background and socioeconomic status influence students' career decisions?
- To what extent does parental influence affect students' choice of career?
- What role do parental expectations play in determining students' academic and career aspirations?
- What challenges do students face when their chosen careers differ from those desired by their parents?
- How does career guidance and counseling help reduce parental pressure on students' career choices?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: There is no significant relationship between parental influence and students' choice of career among senior secondary school students.
- H1: There is a significant relationship between parental influence and students' choice of career among senior secondary school students.
Hypothesis Two
- H0: Parental socioeconomic background and educational level does not significantly affect students' career decisions.
- H1: Parental socioeconomic background and educational level significantly affect students' career decisions.
1.7 Significance of Study
It is believed that at the completion of the study, the findings will serve as a framework for educators, policymakers, and guidance counselors in developing strategies to support informed career choices. The study will also raise awareness among parents about the changing dynamics of modern careers and the importance of allowing children to make independent but guided career decisions.
Furthermore, the study will assist teachers and school counselors in providing effective career guidance and in bridging the gap between parental expectations and students' interests. It will also help them recognize the negative effects of excessive control and the value of open communication with their children.
Lastly, the outcome of this research study will serve as a reference material for future researchers interested in exploring family influence, educational development, and youth career aspirations in Nigeria.
1.8 Scope of Study
The scope of this study is focused on the influence of parents on the career choices of senior secondary school students in Kwara State, specifically within Ilorin metropolis. The research study will cover both public and private schools to ensure a representative understanding of how parental influence varies across different socioeconomic backgrounds.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, there were some problems encountered which stood as limitations to the research work. Some of the limitations include:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Initial Cooperation Delay from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
1.10 Definition of Terms
Career Choice:
Career choice refers to the process of selecting an occupation or profession based on an individual's interests, skills, and values (Umar, 2019).
Parental Influence:
Parental influence is the effect that parents' attitudes, expectations, and socioeconomic background have on their children's decisions, especially concerning education and career (Okafor, 2020).
Guidance and Counseling:
Guidance and counseling refer to the professional services provided in schools to help students understand themselves, their abilities, and their career opportunities (Akinbote & Adeoye, 2022).
Socioeconomic Status:
Socioeconomic status refers to the social and economic position of an individual or family, usually determined by income, education, and occupation (Olaoye & Hassan, 2022).
Secondary School Students:
These are students within the post-primary education level who are typically in preparation for higher education or vocational training (Eze, 2021).
Parental Expectation:
Parental expectation refers to the hopes, aspirations, and standards parents set for their children's academic and career success (Oladejo, 2018).
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