Factors Affecting Peer Pressure and Self-Awareness among Students of Aplaya National High School: Basis for a Proposed Student-Parent Guidance Program

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Teenagers face peer pressure due to the desire of being accepted. They tend to follow their peers by changing their attitudes, values or behavior to conform to those of the influencing group or individual. They lose their sense of self just to fit in a certain group. This research was conducted to study how peer pressure is a serious issue that parents are not aware of. This study aims to help parents understand the pressure their children might be suffering within their peer group. Thus, the result of the study will be used as a basis for a proposed Student-Parent Guidance Program.

METHODS

This research used the descriptive-quantitative approach that mainly focused on gathering numerical data and generalizing it across groups of people. This study used a self-made questionnaire checklist to determine the extent of peer pressure and level of self-awareness.

RESULTS

The extent of peer pressure depicted on behavior (w.m. 2.67) got the highest and the effect on decision-making (w.m. 2.46) got the lowest score. On level of self-awareness, results showed that compliance (w.m. 2.35) were descriptively interpreted as High while obedience (w.m. 2.05) got the lowest and was descriptively interpreted as Low. The R-computed value of 0.40 was noted to indicate a significant relationship between the extent of peer pressure and level of self-awareness and got a Positive Correlation.

DISCUSSIONS

In terms of the extent of peer pressure, the respondents were often influenced by their peers in their behavior. With regards to the level of self-awareness, the results showed that the respondents tend to comply with their peers. In terms of the extent of peer pressure and level of self-awareness among the students of Aplaya National High School, the respondents proved that they were affected by peer pressure. Thus, the extent of peer pressure and the level of self-awareness among the students of Aplaya National High School has a positive correlation and thereby assessed to have a significant correlation. The results show that there should be an appropriate action on how to address the peer pressure they are experiencing. Furthermore, this study proposed a Student-Parent Guidance Program that aimed to help both sides establish a good relationship and to educate proper guidance. It will also enlighten them on the significance of communication and openness.