Chapter II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter presents a collection of literature that is relevant to the study. It

provides sufficient background information, including facts and concepts, about the topic

and the study.

Factors Affecting Career Choice

Choosing a career is often regarded as one of life's most challenging decisions,

influenced by a myriad of factors that shape an individual's professional trajectory. These

factors encompass a broad spectrum, ranging from personal talents and interests to

external pressures such as financial considerations and societal expectations. Among

these influences, peer pressure emerges as a significant force, adding layers of

complexity to an already intricate decision-making process.

Peer pressure, the sway exerted by friends and classmates, can profoundly impact

adolescent development, extending its influence beyond social interactions to affect

academic performance and career choices (Brown & Zimmerman, 2015). A study by

Naz (2014) regarding peers, friends, and career decision-making, obtained information

from 100 students through a questionnaire. The study found that peers and friends have

a considerable impact on the career decision-making process, making them pivotal in the

process.

Furthermore, studies by Vu (2020) and Kazi & Akhlaq (2017) underscore the

pervasive nature of peer influence on young individuals' career aspirations, revealing

instances where students opt for specific career paths simply because their peers’ express
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interest, irrespective of their own inclinations and abilities.

However, according to the study by Smith et al. (2022), career changes can be

triggered by a combination of multiple reasons rather than a single factor, making career

change decisions complex and challenging.

Amidst the prominence of peer pressure, other perspectives offer nuanced

insights into the determinants of career choices. Qiu et al. (2017) argue that students'

abilities and personal aspirations stand as paramount factors in career decision-making.

This assertion finds support in research on self-efficacy and teachers' guidance, which

emphasizes the critical role of individual beliefs and motivations in shaping career

trajectories (Kazi & Akhlaq, 2017).

A similar perspective is offered by the study "A Correlation Study of Career

Preference and Peer Pressure of Students at High School Level" by Chaudhun et al.

(2020), which emphasizes that every individual has different career choices influenced

by factors like family background, personal interests, and peer pressure. It highlights the

importance of recognizing and respecting the unique preferences and characteristics of

each student in career decision-making processes.

Despite the significance of peer pressure, parental influence remains a

noteworthy factor in career decision-making. Parents often have a better understanding

of their children's career choices compared to peers, emphasizing the significant

influence parents can have in guiding their children towards suitable career paths

(Mtemeri, 2020).

While Vu (2020) suggests that parental occupations may wield less sway

compared to other factors, studies on high school students in Zimbabwe indicate that
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parents often possess a deeper understanding of their children's career inclinations,

thereby playing a crucial role in guiding them towards suitable career paths (Brown &

Zimmerman, 2015).

It is evident that career choices represent a complex union of internal and external

influences, wherein peer pressure constitutes just one facet of a multifaceted decision-

making process. Recognizing the intricate dynamics at play is essential for students

navigating this critical juncture in their lives. By acknowledging the influence of peers

while also exploring individual strengths, interests, and values, students can embark on

career paths that promise long-term satisfaction and fulfillment.

The Effect of Peer Pressure on Career Choice

Peer pressure, the influence exerted by friends and classmates, can be a

significant factor in adolescent development, potentially impacting academic

performance and social behavior (Brown & Zimmerman, 2015). Studies suggest that

choosing a career path solely based on peer pressure can have negative consequences.

For instance, Dikkers et al. (2020) found a link between career dissatisfaction and a

mismatch between personal aspirations and career choice. This highlights the importance

of considering individual interests and strengths when making career decisions.

Moreover, research by Mtemeri (2022) examined the impact of peer pressure on

career decision-making among high school students in Zimbabwe. The study found that

students who allowed their career choices to be heavily influenced by their peers were

more likely to experience a range of negative outcomes, including academic struggles, a

lack of competence, low self-confidence, dissatisfaction, and regret. This underscores

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the potential risks associated with making career choices based solely on peer influence.

Additionally, the same study by Mtemeri (2020) highlights that peer pressure can

lead to confusion among students when making career choices. This confusion can arise

from the influence of peers who may not have a genuine interest in the chosen field,

leading students to struggle with understanding the course material and adjusting to the

academic demands.

The existing literature emphasizes the potential negative consequences of

choosing a career based on peer pressure. Therefore, this study aims to investigate how

peer pressure specifically influences the career choices of Grade 10 STE students. By

understanding these effects, the research can provide valuable insights into how to guide

these students towards career paths that align with their individual strengths and interests,

ultimately promoting more informed and fulfilling career decisions.