The Concept of Wealth on Career Choice: A Case Study of Senior High School Students in the Akuapem North District of Ghana

Abstract

Career decision is very vital in one’s life. This study assesses the perception of wealth and its impact on career choice of Senior High School students. The study is descriptive in nature, with a survey conducted at the Akuapem North District of Ghana. A total sample size of 250 (50 per school) was drawn for the study. Stratified and simple random techniques were employed to get the needed sample. A set of questionnaires was developed to capture the required information on the subject under consideration. The responses of the survey were analysed using frequencies, to obtain the percentage values of the responses from the respondents to draw conclusions. This study reveals that most of the career decisions of the youth are based on limited factors like wealth, specifically money, housing, and other fringe benefits that they presume they might get. It is revealed that the youth are also substantially influenced by their family and religious beliefs in their career choice. They are, however, disappointed sometimes because their expectations are not met, which sometimes results in unemployment. It is also revealed that the youth to some extent make their decisions based on limited factors such as what they wish to get from their preferred career. Recommendations include encouraging the youth to pay more attention to guidance and career programmes that are organised for them and also, career and guidance service providers should intensify their effort in educating the youth about the varied factors one needs to consider before career decisions and job preferences are made.

Keywords: Career, Wealth, Guidance, Counselling, Influence, Senior high school, Youth.