Abstract

This study aims to investigates the factors shaping the career choices of Grade 11
students at Holy Family Academy in the Philippines. Through quantitative research utilizing a descriptive study approach, the research explores the influences of parental guidance, mental and psychological factors, and societal pressures on adolescent decision-making processes regarding career planning. A sample of 81 students, selected using simple-random sampling from a population of 239, participated in the study.
The findings underscore the significant impact of parental influence, psychological well-being, and societal pressures on students' career decisions. Parental guidance highlights the substantial role parents play in shaping their children's career aspirations. Additionally, the study emphasizes the critical importance of mental health in career planning, with students prioritizing psychological well-being as the prominent factor among the three. While societal pressures, including those from teachers and schools, were also noted as influential, they were deemed less significant compared to parental, psychological and mental factors.
The study reveals a strong consensus among respondents regarding the importance of mental health in career decision-making, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support systems to address students' well-being. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding adolescent career choices and advocate for interventions to support students as they make critical decisions about their futures.