Self-Concept, Socio-Economic Status of Parents and Selection of Areas of Study among Senior Secondary School Students in Sokoto State Metropolis: Implications for Counselling
Bazza Rukayya Abubakar
Department of Counselling Psychology, Sokoto State University, Sokoto State, Nigeria. Email:
Abstract
This study examined the self-concept, parents’ social status, on the selection of areas of study among senior secondary school students in Sokoto metropolis, Nigeria. A descriptive correlational survey research design was adopted, and data were collected from 380 senior secondary school students using a structured questionnaire. Mean scores and standard deviations were used for data analysis, with a decision rule based on a critical mean of 2.50. The findings revealed that students generally possess a positive self-concept, which significantly influences their selection of areas of study, as most students chose subjects that aligned with their perceived abilities and strengths. The study also revealed that parents’ social status particularly their level of education, occupation, income, and guidance plays a significant role in shaping students’ academic choices. The study concludes that the selection of areas of study among senior secondary school students in Sokoto metropolis is the outcome of an interaction between individual self-concept and parental social factors. It recommends the strengthening of school-based career guidance services, promotion of positive self-concept development, parental sensitisation, and the provision of financial support to reduce social barriers and enable informed academic decision-making.
Keywords: Self-concept, Parents, Social status, Economic status
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