High School Graduation Decision-Making: Parents and Adolescents' Views Divergent?
Parents play a pivotal role in shaping their teenagers' post-high school decisions, providing support, guidance, and structure as they navigate a complex web of personal desires, external pressures, and practical concerns. A survey conducted by American Student Assistance (ASA) involving 3,000 7-12 graders reveals that 90% of students discuss their post-graduation plans with their parents, with this percentage increasing as students approach graduation [1].
The influence of parents is significant, with more than 9 in 10 teens seeking their advice. As students delve deeper into the decision-making process, parental approval tends to favour conventional post-high school pathways. However, a gap in information exists regarding non-degree pathways such as technical schools, apprenticeships, military options, gap years, and direct workforce entry [2].
Recognising this need, tools like the Teens’ Guide to College & Career Planning have been developed to provide comprehensive, teen-friendly information on various pathways. This resource, developed with input from students, parents, and career experts, covers financing, career exploration, and succeeding in different environments beyond college [3].
The survey also revealed that 47% of upper high school students seek their parents' advice, while middle school students are less likely to have their parents influence their post-graduation plans, with only 35% doing so. Interestingly, 14% of teens intend to follow a non-degree pathway, a figure that has risen by 9 points from 2018 [1].
However, 43% of parents had heard not much or nothing at all about non-degree pathways, indicating a need for increased awareness and education. This is further emphasised by the fact that 30% of teens planning non-degree pathways have parents who disagree with their choice [1].
One parent, in a statement, expressed a desire for more information: "I would like to know all the options available for my child after high school." This sentiment is shared by 88% of parents who expressed interest in learning more about non-degree pathways [1].
Policy makers, educators, and workforce development organisations should consider including parents and other teen influencers in career readiness initiatives to ensure a comprehensive approach to supporting teens in their post-high school decisions.
The survey also highlighted a shift in the number of students planning to enroll in a two- or four-year college, with only 45% doing so - a decrease of 28 points from 2018 [1]. On average, students consult with 2.6 individuals for advice on their postsecondary plans, underscoring the importance of a collaborative approach in guiding teens towards their future goals.
In conclusion, while parents are key supports in teens' post-high school planning, they often need better resources and information about the full range of educational and career pathways that do not necessarily involve a four-year degree. By bridging these information gaps, we can empower parents to make informed decisions that support their teens in navigating the complex world of post-high school opportunities.
References: 1. American Student Assistance (ASA) survey, 2021. 2. National Centre for Education Statistics, 2019. 3. Teens’ Guide to College & Career Planning, 2020.
Teens and parents continue to discuss post-high school plans, with nearly all students seeking parental advice. However, a significant portion of parents lack information about non-degree pathways such as technical schools, apprenticeships, and direct workforce entry, which can be a valuable resource for personal growth and education-and-self-development.
In light of these findings, educators, policy makers, and workforce development organizations should prioritize ensuring parents are well-informed about diverse post-high school options to foster a comprehensive approach to personal-growth and development for teens.
