IMPACT OF LOSS OF PARENTS ON FUTURE ASPIRATIONS AND CAREER CHOICES OF IN-SCHOOL ADOLESCENTS IN KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study explored the impact of parental loss on adolescents, with a particular focus on how it influences their academic performance, career planning, and overall future goals. The study utilized a quantitative approach, employing a survey-based questionnaire to gather data from a sample of 200 adolescents who have experienced parental loss. Participants were selected from various high schools to ensure a representative sample across different academic levels. The questionnaire titled “Impact of Parental Loss on Adolescents' Future Aspirations and Career Choices (IPLAFCCQ)” was designed to obtain the responses. The instrument was validated by experts in Department of Educational Guidance and Counselling and it yielded a coefficient of 0.74 when subjected to test re-test method at an interval of four weeks. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed to evaluate the data. The findings indicated a high impact of parental loss on adolescents' future aspirations and career choices, manifesting as reduced motivation, altered career goals, and diminished academic performance. Notably, the study
found no significant differences in the impact based on gender, age, or class level. This suggested that the core challenges associated with parental bereavement are uniformly experienced across various demographic and developmental groups within adolescence. It was recommended that school counsellors and educators should develop and implement targeted support programmes, including grief counseling and career guidance, to address the universal challenges faced by bereaved adolescents. Educational policy makers are advised to establish
and advocate for consistent support policies across academic levels.