CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

The transition from senior high school to higher education

and ultimately, the workforce is a pivotal moment in a student's

life, the hardest challenge will be given to them and that will

make them work hard and strive for success, marked by the crucial

task of choosing a career path. The students career decision is

crucial and important to them they need to acknowledge their

wants, ability, capability and resources for them to be able to

survive in their college life.

This research focuses on the career preferences of Grade 12

students at Mondragon Agro Industrial Highschool during the

school year 2024-2025, aiming to understand the factors

influencing their decisions and develop a robust school career

orientation plan. Research consistently highlights the

challenges students face in making informed career choices,

influenced by factors like limited knowledge of career options,

family and peer influence, societal norms, and the weight of

personal interests, values, and skills.

 By analyzing student demographics, internal factors like

interests, values, and skills, and external factors like family,

peer, and cultural influences, this study aims to develop a

comprehensive career orientation plan that empowers students to

make informed and confident decisions, this is also helpful for

the institution because the students from senior highschool will

experience the career orientation by our research study

ultimately leading them towards fulfilling career paths. This

research holds significant value for students, parents, school

administration, and future researchers, contributing to a better

understanding and support system for career decision-making

within the school and beyond.

In many developing nations, a significant problem is the

mismatch between educational output and labor market demands.

For example, in rural areas of India, a large number of students

pursue higher education in fields like engineering and business

administration, often driven by societal pressure and perceived

prestige, despite limited job opportunities in these sectors

within their communities. This leads to high unemployment rates

among graduates and a shortage of skilled workers in crucial

sectors like agriculture and healthcare.

A well-structured school career orientation plan, which

includes assessments of individual aptitudes, interests, and

local job market analysis, could help address this issue by

guiding students towards careers that align with their skills and

the available opportunities in their region. This would reduce

unemployment, improve economic prospects, and contribute to the

overall development of the community

Gupta, Rajesh, and Anjali Sharma (2018). "Skill Shortages

and Unemployment in India: An Empirical Analysis." Journal of

Economic Perspectives, vol. 32, no. 4, 2018, pp. 45-67.

In the Philippines, a common scenario is a high school

student, let's call her Maria, who excels in science and math.

She enjoys these subjects and dreams of becoming a doctor.

However, her family, particularly her parents, are adamant that

she pursue a career in business administration, believing it

offers greater financial stability and social prestige. Maria

feels torn between her passion for science and her family's

expectations. This internal conflict, coupled with external

pressure, makes it difficult for her to make a clear career

decision.

This situation is a classic example of the challenges

students face when choosing a college path. Internal factors,

such as Maria's personal interests and aspirations, clash with

external pressures from family, societal expectations, and even

financial constraints. This often leads to confusion, anxiety,

and ultimately, a decision that may not be aligned with the

student's true potential and happiness.

Santos, L. & Reyes, M. (2020). The Influence of Family

Expectations on Career Choices Among Filipino Students. Journal

of Educational Psychology, 112(3), (450-465.)

 Objectives of the study

The main objective of this study is to classify the factors

affecting the decision making of grade 12 students in choosing

their career and to develop a career orientation program suitable

for them.

It specifically aims to:

1. determine the demographic profile of the respondents in

terms of:

1.1 Age ;

1.2 Gender;

1.3 Strand; and

1.4 Socio-economic status;

2. Identify the internal factors of career decisions in

terms of:

2.1 Personal Interest;

2.2 Values; and

2.3 Skills;

3. Identify the external factors of career decisions in

terms of:
 3.1 family influence;

3.2 peer influence; and

3.3 culture norms;

4. develop a school career orientation plan.

 Significance of the study

This research on career decision-making among Grade 12

students at Mondragon Agro Industrial Highschool, will contribute

to a better understanding of the factors influencing career

decisions among Grade 12 students, empowering individuals,

institutions, and the community to support students in making

informed and fulfilling career choices. It holds significant

value for various stakeholders including:

Students The study will provide students with a deeper

understanding of the factors influencing their career choices,

empowering them to make informed decisions aligned with their

personal interests, values, and skills. It will encourage

students to reflect on their internal motivations and how

external influences might be shaping their aspirations. This

self-awareness can lead to more confident and fulfilling career

paths.

Parents and Families The research will provide parents and

families with a better understanding of the factors influencing

their children's career choices, promoting more open and

supportive communication. The findings will guide parents and

families in providing appropriate support and encouragement to

their children as they navigate the career decision-making

process. This can also foster stronger relationships between

students and their families by promoting understanding and open

dialogue about career aspirations.

School Administration The study can inform the development

of policies and programs that support students in making informed

career choices, such as career fairs, internships, and mentorship

programs. A well-conducted and impactful research project can

enhance the school's reputation as a supportive and forward-

thinking institution that prioritizes student success.

Future Researcher It can contribute to future researcher on

career decision making and policy recommendations, it can provide

dataset for future researcher on career decision making among

senior high school.

 Theoretical Framework

This study utilizes Krumboltz's social learning theory of

career counseling is based on the idea that career decisions are

influenced by four factors: genetic endowment, environmental

conditions, learning experiences, and task approach skills. These

factors interact with each other and create opportunities for

learning and growth.

1. Genetic Endowment: This refers to the innate abilities,

talents, and predispositions individuals are born with. While not

deterministic, these factors can influence our interests and

aptitudes. For example, someone with a natural talent for music

might be more inclined towards a career in the arts.

2. Environmental Conditions: This encompasses the social,

economic, and cultural contexts in which individuals grow and

develop. It includes family background, socioeconomic status,

access to education, and societal norms, all of which can shape

career aspirations. For example, a child growing up in a family

of doctors might be more likely to consider a career in medicine.

3. Learning Experiences: This is a central element of

Krumboltz's theory. It encompasses both planned and unplanned

learning experiences that shape our knowledge, skills, and

attitudes towards work. This includes formal education,

internships, volunteer work, work experiences, and even casual

encounters that expose us to new ideas and possibilities.

4. Task Approach Skills: These are the skills and strategies

individuals use to approach tasks and challenges. This includes

problem-solving abilities, decision-making skills, adaptability,

persistence, and the ability to learn from experiences. These

skills are crucial for navigating the complexities of the world

of work and adapting to changing circumstances.

Krumboltz emphasizes that these four factors interact with

each other in complex ways, creating a dynamic interplay that

shapes career choices. For example, a student with a natural

talent for math (genetic endowment) might be encouraged to pursue

a career in STEM fields (environmental conditions). However,

their learning experiences in a science class (learning

experiences) might spark a passion for environmental science,

leading them to pursue a career in that field instead. Their

task approach skills (persistence, adaptability) would then

enable them to navigate the challenges of this new career path.

Krumboltz's theory is fundamentally about how individuals

make career decisions. Krumboltz's theory could provide a

valuable framework for understanding the factors that influence

those decisions.
 Krumboltz's theory emphasizes the interplay of multiple

factors, including genetic endowment, environmental conditions,

learning experiences, and task approach skills. krumboltz theory

could be a relevant theoretical foundation. Krumboltz's theory

highlights the ongoing nature of career development and the

importance of learning and growth throughout life. This research

study examines how individuals learn and adapt in their career

journeys, Krumboltz's theory could provide valuable insights.

By embracing this dynamic and flexible approach, individuals

can navigate the world of work with greater adaptability,

resilience, and ultimately, success in building fulfilling

careers.

By recognizing the interplay of genetic endowment,

environmental conditions, learning experiences, and task approach

skills, It can gain a deeper understanding of the factors that

shape our career choices. This knowledge can be applied to this

study of career preferences, allowing it to analyze the complex

interplay of these factors and develop interventions that promote

informed career decision-making

This theory is backed up by Social Cognitive Career Theory

(SCCT) by Lent, Brown, & Hackett is a comprehensive and

influential theory that delves into the intricacies of career

development, educational choices, and academic success. Developed

in 1994, SCCT builds upon Albert Bandura's general social

cognitive theory and extends its application to the realm of

career development.

At the core of SCCT are three key variables: self-efficacy

beliefs, outcome expectations, and personal goals. Self-efficacy

beliefs refer to an individual's confidence in their ability to

perform specific tasks and achieve desired outcomes. These

beliefs play a pivotal role in shaping individuals' interests,

choices, and success in academic and career pursuits. Individuals

with high self-efficacy are more likely to engage in activities

that align with their interests and goals, persist in the face of

challenges, and ultimately achieve success.

Outcome expectations, another critical component of SCCT,

involve individuals' perceptions of the consequences of their

actions. Positive outcome expectations, such as the anticipation

of achieving desired outcomes or rewards, motivate individuals to

pursue specific educational and career paths. Conversely,

negative outcome expectations may deter individuals from engaging

in certain activities or pursuing particular goals.

Personal goals, the third key variable in SCCT, serve as

guiding principles that direct individuals' behavior and

decision-making processes. Goals provide a sense of direction,

purpose, and motivation, influencing the choices individuals make

regarding their education, career paths, and future aspirations.

By setting clear and attainable goals, individuals can channel

their efforts and resources towards achieving desired outcomes.

SCCT also emphasizes the influence of environmental factors

on career development. These environmental influences, such as

social support, role models, and institutional barriers, can

either facilitate or hinder individuals' career progress. A

supportive environment that fosters learning, growth, and

exploration can enhance individuals' self-efficacy beliefs, shape

their outcome expectations, and empower them to pursue their

career goals with confidence.

In summary, Social Cognitive Career Theory offers a

comprehensive framework for understanding the complex interplay

between individual factors, environmental influences, and career

development outcomes. By examining the role of self-efficacy

beliefs, outcome expectations, and personal goals in shaping

individuals' career trajectories, SCCT provides valuable insights

into the mechanisms underlying career choice, academic success,

and overall career development.

SCCT's emphasis on self-beliefs, goal-setting, and

environmental influences underscores the importance of holistic

approaches to career development that consider individual

aspirations, societal expectations, and systemic barriers. By

applying the principles of SCCT in practice, stakeholders in the

field of career development can empower individuals to realize

their full potential, pursue meaningful career paths, and

contribute positively to society.

SCCT represents a paradigm shift in the field of career

development, offering a comprehensive and nuanced understanding

of the factors that influence individuals' career choices,

educational pursuits, and ultimate success. Developed by Lent,

Brown, and Hackett in 1994, SCCT builds upon the foundational

principles of social cognitive theory, emphasizing the interplay

between cognitive processes, social influences, and environmental

factors in shaping individuals' career trajectories.

At the core of SCCT are three interrelated constructs: self-

efficacy beliefs, outcome expectations, and goals. Self-efficacy

beliefs reflect individuals' confidence in their ability to

perform specific tasks and achieve desired outcomes. High self-

efficacy is associated with greater persistence, effort, and

resilience in the face of challenges, leading to enhanced career

exploration, decision-making, and goal attainment. Individuals

with strong self-efficacy beliefs are more likely to pursue

challenging career paths, persist in the face of setbacks, and

ultimately achieve success in their chosen fields.

 Outcome expectations play a crucial role in individuals'

career development by shaping their perceptions of the potential

outcomes of their actions. Positive outcome expectations, such as

the anticipation of career advancement, job satisfaction, and

financial rewards, motivate individuals to invest time and effort

in pursuing their career goals. Conversely, negative outcome

expectations, such as fear of failure or rejection, can undermine

individuals' confidence and deter them from exploring new

opportunities or taking risks in their career pursuits.

Personal goals serve as a guiding force in individuals'

career development, providing direction, purpose, and motivation

for their educational and career endeavors. By setting clear,

challenging, and achievable goals, individuals can establish a

roadmap for their career aspirations, prioritize their actions,

and monitor their progress over time. The alignment between

individuals' goals, self-efficacy beliefs, and outcome

expectations creates a powerful synergy that fuels their

motivation, commitment, and persistence in pursuing their career

objectives.

In addition to these individual-level factors, SCCT

acknowledges the influence of environmental factors on career

development. Social support, role models, and institutional

practices can either facilitate or hinder individuals' career

progress. A supportive environment that nurtures individuals'

self-beliefs, encourages goal-setting, and provides access to

resources and opportunities can enhance their career development

outcomes and promote equitable access to diverse career pathways.

In conclusion, Social Cognitive Career Theory offers a

holistic and dynamic framework for understanding the complex

interplay between individual attributes, social influences, and

environmental factors in shaping individuals' career development

journeys. By integrating principles of cognitive psychology,

social learning theory, and career development, SCCT provides a

comprehensive roadmap for empowering individuals to make informed

career choices, set ambitious goals, and achieve success in their

chosen fields.

Relevance of the study: SCCT offers a framework that aligns

well with the factors that is analyz in the study, focusing on

the internal and external influences on career decision-making

among students.

Internal Factors of Career Decisions: Personal Interest:

SCCT emphasizes self-efficacy beliefs, which are linked to

personal interest and motivation. Individuals with high self-

efficacy are more likely to pursue careers aligned with their

interests.
 Values: SCCT recognizes the role of values in shaping career

decisions. Individuals tend to pursue careers that align with

their values, as these choices are more likely to lead to

satisfaction and fulfillment.

Skills: SCCT highlights the importance of self-beliefs in

skill acquisition and utilization. Individuals with strong self-

efficacy beliefs in their skills are more likely to make career

choices that leverage their abilities effectively.

External Factors of Career Decisions: family Influence: SCCT

acknowledges the impact of social factors on career decisions.

Family support and encouragement can enhance individuals' self-

efficacy beliefs and positively influence their career choices.

Peer Influence: Peer relationships can shape individuals'

self-beliefs and aspirations. SCCT recognizes the role of social

modeling and support in career development, which can influence

students' decisions.

Culture Norms: Cultural values and norms can affect

individuals' self-efficacy beliefs and career aspirations.

Understanding cultural influences is essential in guiding

students towards culturally appropriate and fulfilling career

paths.
 Significance Relationships Analysis: SCCT can provide a

theoretical framework for analyzing the significance relationship

of internal and external factors in career decision-making among

Grade 12 students. By exploring how self-efficacy beliefs,

outcome expectations, personal interests, values, and external

influences interact, you can gain insights into the factors that

most strongly influence students' career choices.

In conclusion, It can enhance the depth of this analysis and

provide a theoretical foundation for understanding the complex

interplay of factors influencing career decisions among Grade 12

students. This approach will not only enrich our research

findings but also offer practical implications for empowering

students, families, school administration, and future researchers

in supporting students' career development and decision-making

processes

The Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT) can be applied to

help students make career decisions by considering various

factors such as self-efficacy, outcome expectations, goals, and

environmental influences.

For example, a student who is interested in pursuing a

career in computer science. According to SCCT, self-efficacy

beliefs, or confidence in their ability to succeed in the field

of computer science, will play a crucial role in their career

decision-making process

This study is supported by Anne Roe's Personality Theory

of Career Choices is significant to this framework in the field

of career psychology. It emphasizes the influence of early

childhood experiences and parent-child interactions on career

development. Roe's theory integrates psychological needs and

occupational classification to explain how individuals choose

their careers.

Parent-Child Interactions Roe identified three primary types

of parent-child interactions that shape personality development:

1. Emotional Concentration: This includes overprotective or

overdemanding behaviors from parents. Children in these

environments may develop a strong need for approval and security.

2. Avoidance: This involves emotional rejection or neglect.

Children experiencing this may become more independent but could

also struggle with feelings of inadequacy.

3. Acceptance: This includes casual or loving acceptance.

Children in these settings are likely to develop a balanced and

secure personality.

Personality Development
 Based on these interactions, children develop orientations

either toward people or away from people. This orientation

significantly influences their career choices. For example,

individuals oriented toward people may pursue careers in social

services or education, while those oriented away from people

might choose careers in technology or research.

Occupational Classification

Roe developed a comprehensive classification system for

occupations, which consists of eight categories and six levels:

- Categories: Service, business contact, organization,

technology, outdoor, science, general culture, and arts and

entertainment.

- Levels: Professional and managerial (1), semi-professional

and small business (2), skilled (3), semi-skilled (4), unskilled

(5), and routine (6).

This classification helps in understanding the diverse range

of career options available and how they align with different

personality types.

Psychological Needs

Inspired by Maslow's hierarchy of needs, Roe integrated the

concept of psychological needs into her theory. She proposed that

unmet needs from childhood influence career choices. For

instance, a person who experienced emotional neglect might seek a

career that provides a sense of belonging and acceptance.

Criticisms and Limitations

While Roe's theory has been influential, it has faced

criticism for its reliance on subjective recall of childhood

experiences. Additionally, some critics argue that the theory

does not adequately address the career development of women and

minorities

Ann Roe's theory of career choices can be highly relevant to

our research study on career preferences among Grade 12 students

at Mondragon Agro-Industrial High School. Here are a few key

points on how her theory can be applied:

1.Parent-Child Relationships: Roe's theory emphasizes the

impact of early childhood experiences and parent-child

relationships on career choices. By examining the students'

backgrounds, you can identify patterns that may influence their

career preferences¹.

2. Psychological Needs: Inspired by Maslow's hierarchy of

needs, Roe integrated psychological needs into her theory.

Understanding these needs can help in identifying why students

are drawn to certain careers, which can be crucial for developing

a suitable career orientation plan².

3. Occupational Classification: Roe developed a

comprehensive classification system for occupations, which can be

used to categorize the career preferences of students. This can

help in organizing career orientation activities and resources

more effectively².

4. Orientation Towards People: Roe's theory also

distinguishes between individuals oriented towards people and

those who are not. This can help in understanding the social

dynamics of career choices among students and in designing

orientation programs that cater to different personality types.

By incorporating these aspects of Roe's theory, This

research can provide deeper understanding into the factors

influencing career preferences and help in creating a more

effective school career orientation plan.

Ann Roe's Personality Theory of Career Choices is highly

relevant to the study of career preferences among Grade 12

students at Mondragon Agro Industrial High School. By examining

how early childhood experiences and parent-child interactions

shape psychological needs and career orientations, Roe's theory

provides a framework for understanding the diverse career

preferences of these students. This understanding can inform the

development of tailored career orientation programs that address

the unique psychological needs of each student, thereby enhancing

the effectiveness of career guidance. Additionally, Roe's

classification system of occupations can be used to create

comprehensive career assessment tools, helping students align

their personalities and needs with suitable career paths.

Ann Roe's theory provides a framework for understanding how

early childhood experiences and parent-child interactions shape

career preferences. By examining these influences, the research

can identify how students' backgrounds and family dynamics affect

their career choices, which can help tailor career orientation

programs to address specific needs and influences.

Roe's theory categorizes individuals based on their

orientation toward people or away from people, which influences

their career choices. This categorization can be used to develop

personalized career orientation plans that align with students'

personality types, ensuring that the guidance provided is

relevant and effective. Roe's comprehensive classification system

for occupations can be utilized to map out potential career paths

for students, offering a broad range of career options that match

their interests and abilities.

 By applying Roe's theory, the research can provide a solid

foundation for developing a school career orientation plan that

considers the various factors influencing career choices,

ensuring a holistic approach to career guidance.

Conceptual Framework

This study aims to investigate the demographic profile of

the students including the internal factors and external factors

influencing career preferences among Grade 12 students at

Mondragon Agro Industrial High School 2024 2025. The findings

will be analyzed by the researchers to identify the relationships

and gaps of the factors and it will serve as a basis for

developing comprehensive career orientation program that is

suitable and useful for the students and to the institution.

Figure 1. Schematic diagram showing the flow of the study

The first step involves a thorough analysis of the collected

data. This analysis will focus on demographics, as well as the

influence of internal factors (personal interests, values, and

skills) and external factors (family influence, peer influence,

and cultural norms) on career choices.

 This data will be crucial in developing a comprehensive

Career Orientation Program for Mondragon Agro Industrial

Highschool. The analysis will also identify trends and

relationships between variables, revealing the specific needs of

the students. For instance, if the analysis reveals a strong

correlation between parental expectations and career choices, the

program might incorporate workshops for parents to understand the

importance of supporting their children's individual interests

and aspirations.

This understanding will guide the researchers in developing

a program that effectively addresses these needs. The program

will incorporate components for career exploration, skill

development, individualized guidance, and continuous improvement,

ensuring its suitability for Grade 12 students. This might

include career fairs, guest speaker sessions with professionals

from various fields, workshops on resume writing and interview

skills, and personalized mentorship programs. This research-

driven approach will ensure that the program is tailored to the

unique factors that influence the career decision-making process

of these students, ultimately empowering them to make informed

and confident choices about their future.

 Definition of terms

The following terms are defined operationally and

conceptually in this study:

Age. conceptually and operationally this refers to the

length of time a person has lived, typically measured in years.

It is often used to denote a stage of life, such as childhood,

adolescence, adulthood, or old age. Age can also be used to

indicate the length of time something has existed, like the age

of a building or a piece of art.

Career Orientation. conceptually and operationally this

encompasses a person's self-perceived skills, values, and

attitudes that shape their occupational self-concept. It guides

their choices regarding specific jobs and work settings,

reflecting their overall approach to their career path. Career

orientation is also a program designed to help students

understand educational and career opportunities, enabling them to

make informed choices.

Career Preference. conceptually and operationally this

describes an individual's desire or inclination towards a

specific type of work or field. It reflects their personal

interests, skills, and values, influencing their choices when

considering career options. Career preference can be influenced

by various factors, including personality, education, and life

experiences.

Culture Norms. conceptually and operationally this are

shared beliefs, values, and behaviors that are considered

acceptable and expected within a specific society or group. They

guide social interactions, define appropriate behavior, and shape

individual attitudes and beliefs. Culture norms are learned

through socialization and can vary significantly across different

cultures.

Family Influence. conceptually and operationally this refers

to the impact that a person's family has on their development,

beliefs, and choices. This influence can be direct, through

parental guidance and support, or indirect, through the family's

values, traditions, and social environment. Family influence

plays a significant role in shaping a person's identity,

worldview, and career aspirations.

Gender. conceptually and operationally this refers to the

socially constructed roles, behaviors, expressions, and

identities of individuals, often associated with being male,

female, or other identities. It is distinct from biological sex

and encompasses a spectrum of experiences and expressions. Gender

roles and expectations can vary widely across cultures and over

time.
 Peer Influence. conceptually and operationally this refers

to the impact that individuals of similar age and social standing

have on a person's thoughts, behaviors, and decisions. This

influence can be positive, encouraging healthy behaviors and

academic success, or negative, leading to risky behaviors and

conformity to group norms. Peer influence is particularly strong

during adolescence, as individuals navigate social dynamics and

identity formation.

Personal Interest. conceptually and operationally this

refers to a specific area or topic that someone finds intriguing,

enjoyable, or worth pursuing. It reflects an individual's

preferences and inclinations towards a particular subject, hobby,

activity, or field of study. Personal interests often stem from a

person's passions, curiosity, and values.

Skills. conceptually and operationally this refer to the

learned abilities to perform specific tasks or activities

effectively and efficiently. They are developed through practice,

experience, and education, and can be categorized as hard skills

(technical) or soft skills (interpersonal). Skills are essential

for success in various aspects of life, including work,

education, and personal development.

Socio-economic Status. conceptually and operationally this

(SES) refers to an individual or family's social and economic

position within a society, typically based on factors such as

income, education, and occupation. It is a complex concept that

reflects access to resources, opportunities, and social networks,

influencing various life outcomes, including health, education,

and overall well-being.

Strand. conceptually and operationally this refers to a

specific area of specialization within a particular field of

study. It represents a focused pathway within a broader

curriculum, allowing students to delve deeper into a specific

subject or area of interest. Strands are commonly used in high

school and college education, providing students with a more

specialized learning experience.

Values. conceptually and operationally this are fundamental

beliefs and principles that guide a person's behavior and

decision-making. They reflect what an individual considers

important, desirable, and worthy of pursuit. Values are often

shaped by personal experiences, cultural influences, and societal

norms, and they can vary significantly from person to person.