Influence of Peer Pressure, Substance Abuse, Delinquency, and Academic Amotivation on Career Choice among Adolescents in Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between peer pressure, substance abuse, delinquency, academic amotivation, and career choice among adolescents in selected Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Oyo State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was employed, and three LGAs Ibadan North, Egbeda, and Ogbomoso North were purposively selected based on their demographic diversity and prevalence of adolescent behavioural challenges. The study targeted adolescents aged 13 to 19 years currently enrolled in public secondary schools within these LGAs. A total of 180 adolescents participated, with samples drawn proportionately from each LGA using purposive sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire assessing demographic variables, peer pressure, substance abuse, delinquency, academic amotivation, and career choice. The instruments were validated by experts and demonstrated strong internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha > 0.75) in a pilot study. Data collection occurred over a four-week period following ethical clearance from the relevant educational authorities. Informed consent and assent were obtained from parents/guardians and participants, respectively. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple regression analysis via SPSS version 26. The study found significant negative relationships between peer pressure, substance abuse, delinquency, academic amotivation, and career choice. Together, these factors significantly predicted career choice, explaining 30.2% of its variance, with academic amotivation being the strongest predictor. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive interventions that address both motivational and social challenges to enhance career decision-making among adolescents in Oyo State.