Relationship Study on Dropout Rate and Peer Influence of Grade Seven Students in Gen. Mariano Alvarez Technical High School

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Drop out is a general problem in all area across the Philippines. The schools struggle in sustaining the students to stay in school and finish their studies. Secondary school level is the most crucial level in a student's life as they enter to adolescent period. This period brings changes to the students longing for social acceptance that can be found on their peers. In many ways, this friendship is an essential for them. This social relationship also plays a role in their decision making that could make or break them.

METHODS

The study employed the descriptive survey method. Since the focus was the breadth of the findings, the descriptive survey methodology was found suitable for the study. The study was analytic (qualitative) in that the researchers focused on the relationships between variables and further interpreted the relationships. The survey design was preferred because it is the most appropriate design where self-reported beliefs and opinions of respondent are sought.

RESULTS

The study states that the leading causes of dropping out of students are family problems and influence of their peers and the community they live in. Eighty five percent of the students decide to drop out of school because of their family situation and influence of friends. Students who answers family also chooses community as the factors that lead them to their decision. Based on the pattern frequencies from the data there is a significant relationship between dropout rate and the peer influence of dropout students.

DISCUSSIONS

The individual perspective of the students related to its family situation and community. The study recognized the leading causes behind the drop out are coming from their family and community expressed by their peer/ group influence. That these patterns can be addressed with the help of all the sectors that can extend their hand to preserve students and not to choose to be dropped out of school.