The Influence of Family Values, Socioeconomic Status, and Child Rearing Styles on Career Aspirations Among Secondary School Students

This study examined the influence of family values, socioeconomic status, childrearing styles, and career aspirations among secondary school students in Osun State, Nigeria. The descriptive survey design of the correlational type was used during the investigation. This study employed a multistage sampling technique. Three hundred secondary school students made the study's sample. Data was collected using reliable instruments: (Family Values Questionnaire α = 0.78, socioeconomic status scale α = 0.86; Parenting Style Questionnaire α = 0.84; and Career Aspirations Scale α = 0.84). The results showed no significant difference in the career aspirations of secondary school students based on gender. There is a strong relationship between career aspirations among secondary school students and family values (r = .953; p.<05), socioeconomic status (r = .297; p.<05), and childrearing styles (r = .263; p.<05). The most significant contribution was made by family values (β = .227; t = 2.371; p<0.05) followed by socio-economic status (β = .214; t = 2.401; p<0.05) and child rearing styles (β = .202; t = 2.321; p<0.05). The study underscores the need for the home and the school to cooperate to keep the learners focused on their careers. They should also encourage, inspire, and equip the students with adequate motivation to foster positive career aspirations.