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INTRODUCTION

A career choice is one of the most difficult choices that an individual has to
make. It is a decision that describes what a person will do for their career. It partly
describes whether a particular person will be successful or not. There is a lot of factors
that affect the decision of a person when it comes to making career choices. Some
people would base it on their skills and interest. Others decide based on the probability
of succeeding on that career while others decide based on the influence they receive
from their families and friends. All these factors play a vital role in their decision making.

In this era choosing a career has become more difficult and complicated simply
because there are more choices which make deciding harder. Most of the people who
are about to make career choices today are under the category of Generation Z. People
under this generation are engaged in a more complicated decision making due to the
pressure that the society imposes whether in person or in the realm of social media.

According to Juni (2017), Generation Z are people who are born after 1995. This
generation has lived their life in the age of technology where they can access multiple
data in their hands. These people are hoped to be the future of the global economy.
When the year 2020 comes they will be the world’s top consumers. In countries like US
and Europe they already make up the most of the population. They are diverse, equal
and non-discriminant. This generation is optimistic and serious about their personal
ambition. Knowing themselves is their priority as well as their job. They also have a
sense of social justice, philanthropy and maturity because of their experiences in this
era.

On the other hand, some researchers have a negative perception about this
generation. This generation will be working in the upcoming years but there is little to
know about their characteristics, attributes and work style because of their diverse
culture. They have different attitudes towards work than the generations before them.
Without proper understanding of this era, companies will have a hard time hiring and
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training these people. This is an additional reason to conduct this study. It will identify if
peer pressure is a factor towards their choice of work (Sigh & Jianguanglung, 2017).

Treynor (2009) defines peer pressure as the influence exerted by a peer group
or an individual who encourages other individuals to develop their thinking, behavior
and morals to the same as theirs in order to fit in. To simplify, according to Damm
(2017), peer pressure is defined as the influence from friends of one group. The
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry states the most people often give
in to peer pressure because they want to fit in. They want to be accepted and they
worry that they may be left out or made fun of if they don't go along with the group.

It both has negative and positive effects which can affect the physical and
mental state of an individual. If friend’s advice their peers to do what is right, then peer
pressure becomes a positive thing but if it misleads or confuses the mindset of an
individual, then it becomes a negative factor. This is because most teens are still
searching for their identities and they do not have enough maturity to decide on
important matters.

According to Preez (2018), peers shape the world in different ways. Peer
pressure can influence which colleges students attend, the risky behavior they
participate in, and their academic achievement. Peers heavily influence behaviors,
attitudes, and outcomes.

According to Maina (2011), peer pressure is not always negative because friends
can have positive influences towards the behavior of an individual. These positive effects
are the source of security, learning experience, different perspective and source of
encouragement among others. It also leads a person to feel better, happier and
healthier. The main difference between positive and negative peer pressure is the
impact it has on the person.
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Maina (2011) states the negative outcomes of peer pressure. It results to people
feeling unhappy, unwell or uncomfortable. Conformity can create problems when peers
influence one to do activities that are risky. It can lead to teen depression, high stress
levels, negative behavior issues, and poor decision-making and outcomes.

When it comes to academic choices, Michael (2018) states that there are often
issues where students are in the wrong class wherein one of the major influences is the
effect of parent or peer influence. It is a serious problem that can cause major conflict.
He also stated that a student who prefers a career or a subject because of their parents
or friend is comparable to a robot not being able to do what it is programmed for.

He also stated that a student might encounter difficulties in performing in school.

He or she will likely suffer academically. The student will lose his or her identity because
she is not acting on her desires due to peer influence. School results and reports will
reflect these facts.

According to Parker (2017), the members of Generation Z endure a lot of

pressure on what they want to be when they grow up. Based on their research into
Generation Z, it is understood that these young people are under intense pressure to
choose early and choose wisely so that they are able to earn money for a living. Parker
stated that most of the Generation Z members select a four-year degree program
because of their inability to select a proper career, lack financial support and peer
pressure. These young people also often regret their career paths but have no other
choice but to finish it.

The purpose of this research is to identify the effects of peer pressure in making
career choices. It is helpful because it will study one of the factors on making a career
decision. The study will help to prevent mistakes in choosing a career as it focuses on
element which impacts most a person’s decision. The study will find out if peer pressure
has effects over career choices and aims to help others to be better at decision making
and have a secured future.
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The choices of friends sometimes have impacts on an individual’s decision. This

study seeks to answer the effects of peer pressure in choosing a career among the
Generation Z. Some people have the tendency to rely on others when making a decision
while some people don’t. This study will determine if peer pressure really has an effect
over the career choice of a member of Generation Z. It will allow the readers to get a
concept if peer pressure can affect their career choice. It will also determine whether it
is best to consider or avoid the decision of others when it comes to making a career.

The researchers want to explore the effects of peer pressure in choosing a

career among Generation Z. It aims to answer if peer pressure has effects on a career
choice. Specifically, it seeks to answer (1) how does peer pressure influence the
Generation Z in choosing a career, (2) what are the positive and negative effects of peer
pressure in making decisions and (3) is peer pressure relevant and helpful in choosing a
career.

This study focuses on the effects of peer pressure in choosing a career among
the Generation Z. The data will be obtained by giving questionnaires to students under
the category of Generation Z. The researchers will conduct their study in the University
of the Assumption. The participants are Grade 12 students of the University of the
Assumption since they are in the midst of making career choices. This research utilized
quota sampling. The study is limited to the 20 Grade 12 students of the University of the
Assumption. The research covers peer pressure and choosing a career.

This study focuses on how peer pressure affects the career decision making of
the Generation Z people. It will give precise information on the effects of peer pressure
and determine whether it is relevant and helpful. The students will benefit for they will
be enlightened about how peer pressure affects their decisions particularly in choosing a
career path they will take. To career counselors, this study may help them guide future
generations to make better career choices. To the future researchers, this study may be
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a guide or a basis in conducting the same topic in their research because of the content
provided in this research.

METHODOLOGY

Research Design

This study utilized Qualitative Research Design in gathering and interpreting data
and in coming up with a solution about this study (Crossman, 2017). Qualitative
Research helped the researchers to further elaborate the study and identify the
correlation of the variables of the topic. The data gathered supported the claims of the
study. It also helped in finding a solution for the study. The nature of the topic is
explanatory wherein the researchers will conduct a further explanation about the topic
that was not well researched before so that they can provide a better researched-model.
The design made the study more effective.

Instrument

The researchers used questionnaire in obtaining information. Specifically, it

collected information from the Grade 12 students of the University of the Assumption by
answering the following research questions:

1. What are the effects of peer pressure in your career choice?

2. How were you influenced by your friends in making career choices?
3. Do you think peer pressure is helpful in choosing a career?
4. Do you think the influence of peer pressure in your career choice has affected you
personal and academic life?

Sampling Technique

The researchers adapted quota sampling technique. The researchers were free
to choose the respondents of their study as long as they reach their desired number of
participants. The researcher aims to identify if peer pressure has an effect on the career
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choices of the Generation Z. The criteria for selecting the participants are: they belong
to grade 12, birth year (1995 and above) and they are senior high school students of
the University of the Assumption. The researcher selected 20 grade 12 students.

Data Gathering Procedure

The following were the steps followed in gathering data: The researchers
constructed the instrument. The research adviser and consultant validated the
questions. The researchers conducted pilot-testing among the five (5) possible
participants. After that, instruments were retrieved from the possible participants.
Revisions were undertaken after the participants gave feedback on the study. Once
revised, data gathering was conducted. Researchers retrieved the questionnaires after
for data analysis.

Data Analysis

From the gathered data, the researchers analyzed the results through
coding. The researchers grouped the answers with the same concept and applied
codes on them. Coding is the process of summarizing the principal idea of the
unprocessed responses to be able to analyze more efficient data (Saldana,
2015). After which, the researchers then made their final step which was to
summarize the coded data.
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RESULTS

1. Reasons for the personal and mental difficulties students experience

because of their career choice

Confusion. Eight students answered that they experienced personal and mental
difficulties because of their career choice.

“Yes, during the early times of my sits. I think the reasons why I experience
difficulties is because I myself isn’t sure if I’m going to pursue such career that
I’ve chosen.” (P3)

“Yes, because as we all know choosing a program for yourself is one of the
hardest decisions, you will make because it can affect your future.” (P4)

“Yes, I’ve experienced difficulties and I think the reason is that I’m not yet sure
of what career I would like to take in the future.” (P7)

“Yes, because of this strand I am having difficulties deciding on what I want. I

am confused. (P10)

“Yes, because at first, I wasn't really sure if I really like the career that I am
taking but eventually I started to love my chosen career. I think the reason is
that, it's my first time to encounter situations like that.” (P14)

“Yes, I have experienced difficulties like confusion and anxiety. It's because I
may not always be 100% sure with my career choice or unsure if I have the
abilities to do it.” (P15)

“Yes actually, because I have a lot of things that I have in my mind and I still
don't know what career choice I will pursue in the future. But one thing that I
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know about myself is I love helping other people especially the sick. That's why I
have the feeling that I belong in medical course.” (P16)

“Yes, because of lack of motivation.” (P20)

Did not experience. Three participants stated that they did not experience
difficulties because of their career choice.

“No, I did not experience.” (P11)

“No, I did not.” (P13)

“No, I didn’t. I don’t know” (P17)

Can’t survive. Two students answered that they felt like they cannot survive
and finish their career choice.

“Yes, because I feel like I can’t survive my career choice.” (P5)

“Yes, I’m scared of not finishing my chosen course and doubt if I could
remember the learnings taught in college.” (P9)

Wrong Strand. Two students answered that they are having difficulties because
they are in the wrong academic strand.

“Yes, because of my current strand is not aligned with the course.” (P8)

“Yes, mentally because it is really difficult to be in a field that you did not want
to be in the first place.” (P12)

Relatives’ Choice. Three students answered that they experienced difficulties

because their career was chosen by their relatives.

“Yes, because my grandmother wants me to take up the course I don’t want.

Because of practicality also.” (P1)
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“Yes, because my parents decided what my course will be, and I always think if
the course that I’m going to choose can enhance my knowledge and skills.” (P2)

“Yes. Because my career choice does not match the career choice of my mother
for me so it made me confused.” (P19)

Demand and Salary. One student experienced personal and mental difficulties
due to consideration of the demand and salary of a career.

“Yes, because I’m considering the demand and salary of the career I’m about to
take. (P6)

A Normal Situation. One student stated that difficulties are experienced by

everyone.

“Yes of course who doesn’t? But nobody wants bad stuff to happen in their
choices.” (P18)

2. Factors to consider in making career choices

Own Choice. Seven of the participants considered their own choice in making a
career choice.

“No, because my career choice was my own choice and I don’t consider peer
pressure as a factor.” (P5)

Yes, because I want to choose the career where I will enjoy what I am doing.”
(P7)

“No, because no one can affect me.” (P8)

“No, because I have my own choices.” (P13)

“I think, no. Because you must take the career you really want to take not just
because of the influence” (P14)
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“No, when choosing a career, you must consider yourself and think what will
best suit for you and will satisfy you.” (P17)

“No. Because I can't do the things that they can do like draw or solve
mathematical problems and I should make the decision that will benefit me the
most.” (P19)

Friends’ Choice. Three of the participants consider their friends choice in

choosing a career.

Yes, practically saying when your friends want to pursue a certain course, you
will also be encouraged with the same as well.” (P2)

“Yes, because you also think of the circumstances that will affect your
relationship with friends.” (P9)

“Yes, because all of my friends wanted to pursue accountancy, that’s why I

wanted to pursue it as well.” (P12)

Not a factor. Four of the participants do not consider peer pressure as a factor
in choosing a career.

“No, I don’t consider peer pressure as a factor.” (P3)

“No, it is not.” (P6)

Not, really most of the pressure factor that I consider is not knowing what I like
the most.” (P18)

“No, because we have different capabilities.” (P20)

Neutral. One of the participants sometimes consider peer pressure as a factor.

“Yes and no. Yes, because I asked for their insights and such. No, because this is
what I really want for myself.” (P4)
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Good for the future. Two of the participants consider peer pressure as
somehow good for their choice.

Yes, because I want to choose the career where I will enjoy what I am doing.”
(P7)

“Yes, because I choose it and I believe it is good for me not now but in the
future.” (P11)

Skills and Knowledge. Only one participant considers skills and knowledge in
choosing a career.

“No, I will choose my career based on my skills or knowledge and not by the
wants of my friends.” (P1)

Not suitable for Job: One of the participants thinks that his or her current
stand may not be suitable for his future job.

“Yes, because this strand is not fit for my future job/course. Although this strand
is fit for all courses, I have struggles when it comes to the subjects.” (P10)

Family’s Influence. One respondent answered that his/her family pressured

her into a career.

“Yes, peer pressure was a factor because most of my family relatives are in the
medical field. They had some expectations and hopes I would follow along in
their footsteps.” (P15)

3. The student’s perception on the relevance and importance of peer pressure

in career choices

Own Skill and Abilities. Three respondents answered that one must consider
their skills and abilities not peer pressure.
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“No. Choosing your own career should not be based on your friends because we
all have our own and unique skills that are perfectly fit in a specific field.” (P1)

“No, in choosing a career it is more important to analyze your skills and

knowledge.” (P6)

“No, because sometimes you have to decide for yourself and you have to accept
that you can’t be with your peers forever. You have to get a career that suits you
well, a career that you know you will enjoy and a career wherein you can
showcase your full potential.” (P12)

Own Decisions. Seven respondents answered that they consider their own
choices.

“No, if you are really or willing to choose a course or a path you will partake,
why hesitate to be influenced by others. (P2)

“No, I don’t think so.” (P3)

“No, because first of all. They’re not to take my career choice and they are not
the ones who will have difficulties in my choice.” (P5)

“No, you must know what you really want in your life.” (P13)

“For me no, although sometimes you need to considerate them but the most
important is your own decision. (P14)

“It is relevant but it should not be an important factor to choose your career
path. That is because peer pressure can lead you to choosing what you don't like
so it should not always be considered unless you do like the career that is being
influenced on you.” (P15)

“No, because it is a hindrance. They hinder you from what you desire by what
they desire. (P18)
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Friends’ Opinion or Suggestion. Seven participants consider peer pressure

relevant because their friends’ opinions and suggestions matter.

“Yes, because they have different perceptions and insights on different courses
offered by the schools. With those ideas you can easily find what you want.” (P4)

“Yes, because my friends also know what is the best for me at the same time the
things that I want.” (P7)

“Yes, because peers can suggest a course that they want you to take.” (P8)

“Yes, because sometimes I enjoy studying with my friends so in a way I am also

influenced.” (P10)

“Yes, because you will see if you are going to base yourself on your friends.”
(P11)

“Yes, because in our age, peers are the one who influence us the most and we
opt to listen and hear what they say than our parents.” (P19)

“Yes, because peers can make each other into doing what's right.” (P20)

Manipulation and Change of Choice. Three participants stated that they

consider pressure relevant and helpful because they result to changing and manipulating
of one’s decision.
“Yes, because in one's peer group if you are the only one who doesn't have the
choice to do it. It might force you to do the same thing.” (P16)

“For me there is, peer pressure influences other to do the same thing or choose
between your choice and their choice.” (P17)

““Yes, because it will manipulate your decision in future courses.” (P9)

4. Ways on how Peer Pressure affects career making

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Not influenced. Seven participants stated that they were not influenced by
peer pressure.

“I am not being influenced by my friends.” (P1)

“I was not influenced by my friends.” (P6)

“They did not influence me.” (P7)

“I am not influenced.” (P8)

“I don’t listen to them.” (P13)

“I’m not influenced by my friends in making career choice.” (P17)

“They don't influence me.” (P19)

Doesn’t want to part ways. Four respondents stated that they were
influenced because of their fear of parting ways with their friends.

“I was being influenced by my friends in a way that when we are talking about
the career that we want to choose, we tend to feel that we don’t like the idea of
being apart from each other.” (P3)

“Actually, in the first place, I’m not influenced by my friends but I considered
peer pressure because I am afraid to meet new classmates.” (P11)

“We wanted to be together that’s why I decided to pursue the program they
want.” (P12)

“I have been influenced by their characteristics of being happy all the time and
the atmosphere of procrastinating has a greater impact to me.” (P16)

Own Choices. Four participants answered that they were not influenced by peer
pressure and made their own choice.

“Actually, they did not influence me, I make choices by my own. (P2)
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“I don’t think they influenced me because ever since, I’m already decided in the
program I’ll pursue in college.” (P5)

“I chose my career based on my hobby.” (P18)

“I did not take their influences seriously but rather I made my own choice” (P14)

Lead to their course/strand. Four students answered that they were

influenced by being told to take their current path.

“They want me to take courses that I like.” (P9)

“I got influenced, because my original strand is HUMSS and then suddenly I was
forced by the class.” (P10)

“They know I have talent in arts so they are encouraging me to take art course/s
or architecture.” (P20)

“By listening to their opinion.” (P4)

Family Choice. One student answered that he was influenced by family.

“I was not influenced by friends, only my family with my career choice.” (P15)

5. Factors to know if peers pursued the respondents to be on their current

program

Implicit decisions. Fourteen of the respondents answered that they are on

that program not because their peers pursued them but because they are really sure on
it.

“No, helping other people makes me happy and seeing them improving will sure
make my heart flattered.” (P1)

“No, they didn’t. Most of my friends are STEM students, I just want to enhance
my speaking, writing skills, etc. That is why I choose this strand.” (P2)
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“No, and I’m sure about the program I took.” (P5)

“No, I’m sure.” (P6)

“No. I wanted this for myself. I am not sure though.” (P7)

“No, I’m just undecided so I took ABM.” (P8)

“No, I know that I have plans, it is not about who influenced you. It depends if
you are going to go with them or you just focus on what you want.” (P11)

“No, because this is my program. (P13)

“No” (P14)

“No, I am sure for this thing because curing to sick people, for me is the thing
that I love to do.” (P16)

“No, I’m 100% sure because it is my own choice.” (P17)

“No, to be honest my parents pushed me to do what I love.” (P18)

“No. Maybe 70%.” (P19)

“No. I love what I do.” (P20)

Undecided and sure. Six of our respondents answered that they are being
pushed by their peers in their current program because their peers motivated them to
take their wanted courses, and some of them are still undecided.

“Somehow yes but this is also what I want to pursue in the future that is why I
am sure of the program that I took.” (P3)

“Yes, I’m 100 percent sure” (P4)

“Yes, I’m not so sure because I don’t quite know what my wants are.” (P9)

“Yes, until now I’m not sure. I am undecided.” (P10)

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“Yes, I’m not sure because I’m not that good in accounting. I personally wanted
to become a lawyer someday.” (P12)

“They did not really push me to specifically choose a certain career but
influenced me because they are my role models. At this point, I am very sure
that I want to at least work in my chosen field I am just not completely sure of
which specific job.” (P15)

6. Reasons why the participants did not follow and regret following their
peers

Did not regret. Ten participants answered that they did not regret following
their peers’ advice.

“No, because now I have acquired many lessons in this strand.” (P12)

“No, because this is what I like.” (P13)

“As for now, I don't have any regrets because I like it too” (P14)

“I do not regret following their opinions because all their opinions are valid.”
(P15)

“No, for they are more experienced than I do.” (P18)

“No, because they somehow helped in a way.” (P20)

“No, because their opinion is also my happiness because both my own decision
and theirs are the same so it feels so good having a friend that supports you all
the time.” (P3)

“No. because they only want what’s the best for me.” (P7)

“No, because it has good effects one me. It helps me decide more.” (P11)

“No, because I’m comfortable listening to other people.” (P9)

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Did not follow. Seven students answered that even they did not follow their peer’s
advices, they still respected them and at the same time they have their own choices.

“No, because I trust them and I also follow my own choice.” (P1)

“No, because I didn’t follow them either.” (P2)

“No, because as what I’ve said I also want this for myself.” (P4)

“No, I didn’t follow their opinion but I respected it. (P5)

“No, because it was my own choice.” (P17)

“No. Because I didn't follow their opinions.” (P19)

“No, I discover that Accountancy is fun and the strand ABM is enjoying.” (P8)

Unable to take. A student answered that if you only followed the advices of the
peers, you will not able to get what you want.

“Yes, because somehow you won’t get what you want to pursue.” (P6)

Wrong stand. Two students answered it could lead you to the wrong strand.

“Sometimes, because I was HUMSS in the first semester and suddenly I become
a GAS in the second semester because it is a medical class.” (P10)

“I will regret it sometimes only, because if it will not be good for me, I will not
follow their opinions.” (P16)

7. Factors to know if the influence of peer affected personal and academic

life of the students

Affected. Eight students answered that it influenced their personal and

academic life by pushing them to have courage and to adapt to their new environment.
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“Yes, in a positive way by this kind of influence, it helps me strive harder in life
and to always believe in myself and my capabilities.” (P3)

“Yes, because I am enjoying learning and studying with my friends.” (P7)

“Yes, because every time I contemplate what I should be doing in the future.”
(P9)

“Yes, because now that I’m in the GAS strand even if it has advantages because
I can take up any course but I have difficulties with subjects that I don’t even
need and it is affecting my academics.” (P10)

“Yes, it’s actually not my own choice but I don’t have my own decision so I go
with my friends. It affects my personal and academic life because I’m adjusting.
(P11)

“Yes, but in a good way. Because the peer pressure I received had good
intentions.” (P15)

“Yes maybe. It actually affects everyone in the peer group especially our
personal life by encountering some instances that you will expect that you
included into it.” (P16)

“Yes. For me, taking up STEM is easier than the other strands.” (P20)

Does not affect. Four students answered that peers do not influence their
personal and academic life.

“No, because I don’t think it influences career choices.” (P1)

“No.” (P2)

“No, they didn’t influence me to take this program and it didn’t affect me both
personally and academically.” (P5)
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“No, it doesn’t have effects.” (P6)

Own choice. Four students answered that their peers did not influence them
for they already know what to take in college.

“No, because I want this for myself. (P4)

“No, because I take what I want in college” (P13)

“I was not influenced by my peers. It is my own choice to pursue this career.”

(P19)

“Yes. For me, taking up STEM is easier than the other strands.” (P20)

Neutral. Two students answered that peers can affect choices in both personal
and academic depending on the situation in life.

“I think there are just times but not all.” (P14)

“Not really, it’s up to you if you are going to follow their advice or not. You do
you, do what you think is best for you. (P18)

Unable to take. Two students answered that if you follow your peers in what
program you will take, you will not able to follow what you want.

“Yes, if you choose what your friends choose, you may not take the course that
you want.” (P8)

“Yes, because you are forced to do something that you are not capable of.”
(P17)

8. Students’ faith in friend’s opinions and reasons for believing them

Believe. Seven of the students answered that they do believe in their peer’s
advices.
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“I believe in my friend’s opinion so much because I know that they only want the
best for me and they would not want to see me suffer or sacrifice my own
happiness.” (P3)

“I believe them when they are right.” (P4)

“I strongly believe them because I’ve known them for a very long time and I
trust them.” (P5)

“I believe in them just like how I believe in myself because I know they only
want the best for me.” (P7)

“A little bit, because I think they are better than me.” (P9)

“I believe or consider in their opinions most of the time because their opinions
included a lot of different facts and experience stories.” (P15)

“I consider their opinions then I choose what is really the best for me. I believe
in them because I know that they want the best for me.” (P19)

Consider their own decision. Five students answered that even they listen to their
peers, they still have their own decisions.

“I believe in my friend’s opinion but that doesn’t mean that I will change my
career or it will affect my decision.” (P1)

“I always believe in my friend’s opinion, but there are some instances that you
should choose for you own because it is your own path and it is your own
future.” (P2)

“I believe them but I still consider my own opinion.” (P6)

“I don’t because, you should choose what your passion is because you won’t be
with your friends in the future.” (P10)
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“I accept their own opinions and respect them but, for me really, what I really
want is the one to be followed.” (P14)

Don’t believe. Three of the participants answered that they do not believe in
their peer’s advices.

“I don’t believe in them.” (P8)

“I don’t believe in them, but I just want to be with them so that I follow what is
good for us.” (P11)

“No, I don’t believe in them” (P13)

Neutral. Four of the students answered that they believe their peer’s advices
depending on the situation.

“I don't usually believe on them but I usually put my trust into them whatever
they say. But sometimes I want proofs.” (P16)

“Sometimes I do believe them, if the person has a good intention to help you.”
(P17)

“Just like on my previous answer, I do respect their opinion but not necessarily
believe them.” (P18)

“I consider their opinions then I choose what is really the best for me. I believe
in them because I know that they want the best for me.” (P19)

9. Frequency of following friends’ advices and reasons

Seeing the Perspective of Others. Seven respondents answered that they

follow their friends’ opinions to see their perspective.

“I’m following some of their advices because it is better to have the advices from
them so that you will see the other perspective and not only focusing on
yourself” (P1)
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“When I need some perspective and ideas from other people.” (P2)

“When I know that their advice really makes sense and was the right thing to
do.” (P3)

“When I need another POV at the situation.” (P6)

“Every time I have problems and they give me advice that I can use every time.”
(P7)

“Always when I have a problem.” (P8)

“I do not always follow it all the time, I only follow it when it can be in my favor
or is something to really consider.” (P15)

Sometimes. Eight students sometimes followed their friends’ advices.

“Sometimes. I don’t like their advices.” (P4)

“Sometimes, because I also have my own decisions as a person.” (P9)

“Sometimes, when their advice is effective, I will follow it.” (P10)

Sometimes, if it is for my own good why not.” (P16)

“Rarely, because sometimes in making decisions you just have to believe in

yourself.” (P17)

“If necessary, most likely.” (P18)

“Not all the time. Because sometimes we just joke around and give advices
playfully and not seriously.” (P19)
“Sometimes, when i think they have a point.” (P20)

It depends on the situation. One student follows his friend’s opinion

depending on the situation.
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“It depends on the situation.” (P5)

Own Decision. Four students follow their own choice not their peers’ advice.

“I actually don’t follow them that much but I like I’ve said before it is also my
choice.” (P11)

“Not so often, because sometimes I choose and decide for myself.” (P12)

“I don’t because I know that is best for me.” (P13)

“Sometimes, because I often follow my decisions.” (P14)

10. Factors to know if the influence of peers in making career choices is

helpful or not among Generation Z

Give advices and other insights. Eight students answered that the influence
of their peers lead them to the right course because they already enjoy it.

“It is helpful when they were not forcing you to choose your career. Deciding for
your own is an effective way not to hesitate with the career that you’ll be going
to choose.” (P2)

“Yes, it has. It is helpful because it helps you know yourself more and be
accountable with your future.” (P3)

“Yes, it is helpful because they can give advice and insights.” (P7)

“It has no effect but it is helpful to me in a way that, I realized what is the
appropriate course for me.” (P11)

“It has an effect. I could say that it’s somehow helpful because it makes me
open myself to new things.” (P12)

“I think it is not helpful, because sometimes as a member of generation Z. You

must decide on your own, for the successfulness of your career choice.” (P16)
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“Yes, for they shape your likeness in a different level.” (P18)

“Yes. they helped me to be more goal oriented.” (P20)

Neutral. Four students answered that the influence of peers can either cause
positive and negative effects depending on the situation.

“Yes and no because again their insights are helpful but I also want this for
myself.” (P4)

“I can say that it has effects but it’s still up to you on how you’ll handle those
things. At times it’s quite helpful.” (P14)

“It has strong effects but it depends on what their opinions are if it is helpful or
not for, I have received good and bad peer pressure and opinions. Peer pressure
for me was both helpful and unhelpful.” (P15)

“Yes, most of the time the choice of someone is influenced by their peers.
Sometimes it can be helpful but most of the time it is not. It can be helpful if you
discovered that you're good at something because your friends pushed you to do
it. You discovered your hidden talent. Then it is not helpful if you are doing
things that is against your will and it is really not your interest, so you're just
wasting your time.” (P19)

Independence. Five students answered that they must be mature enough to

carry out their own decisions.

“No, you will lose your way and you won’t be able to do what you really want.”
(P6)

“It has an effect because if you choose a course that you don’t want, you may
regret it forever.” (P8)
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“Not helpful, because following your friend’s choices would mean that the career
choice you chose is only an impulse.” (P9)

“No because, you must know what you really want.” (P13)

“Peer pressure has effect for generation z; it is not helpful because they are not
independent enough to choose on their own career choice.” (P17)

Not influenced. A student answered that he/she is not influenced.

“No, because I am not being influenced. It is not helpful because you are
depending your own decision on the wants of other people. (P1)
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DISCUSSIONS

This research aimed to identify how peer pressure influence the Generation Z in
choosing a career. Most of the participants already have their own mindset about their
career which they based on their hobbies and skills. Most of them are already sure of
their current career path and are focusing on the improvement of their skills. These
participants stated that they do not follow their friend’s advice but still respect their
insights and reasons. They considered their own will and decisions because they choose
to follow their own will. However, there are still a few cases where individuals consider
the influence of their peers when choosing a career path. These cases show a positive
outlook of the influence of peer pressure. Some of the participants considered the
perspectives and ideas of their friends to take the courses that they want. They are
listening to their peers in terms of looking for motivation. In addition, some students
take the advices of their peers because they are undecided. These people believe that
the advice of their friends is good for them because they are enlightened with a new
perspective. There is one case however, one participant stated that he was influenced
into taking his current career out of fear of parting ways with his friends. This shows a
negative outlook on how peer pressure influences career choices.

According to Perrone (2017), students experience peer pressure in high school, it

can be negative or positive. People choose whom will they be with. These people are
responsible to what kind of peer pressure they are exposed. Students believe that peer
pressure is just a caution that cannot be applied to them. However, if they are
surrounded with their group of friends, their decision might follow their will.

In relation to this study, it states that peer pressure is always present and can
always influence someone. It also shows that the participants believe that peer pressure
has negative and positive effects depending on its impact.

The researchers also aimed to identify the effects of peer pressure in the
decision making of the Generation Z when it comes to. Based on the gathered data,
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most of the students do not experience personal and mental difficulties because of the
influence of peer pressure in their career choices. They mostly experienced difficulties
because of being undecided with their career, fear of failure and being in the wrong
strand. The closest to peer pressure was parental influence where some students
experienced difficulties because their career choice was not their choice.

With regards to their academic life some students state that it made their
experience better and a few of them answered that it made things harder and more
difficult. Despite having few effects, the respondents still revealed that they follow and
listen to the opinion of their peers. Most of the respondents think that listening to their
peers is helpful, that their opinions are valid and provides happier experiences though
some students still resort to their own choices. There are also a few rare cases which
show regret of listening to the opinion of their peers. These respondents stated that it
could lead to a student not being able to take their wanted course, being stuck in the
wrong career and having difficulties personally and academically.

Peer pressure is defined as the influence from friends of one group and it both
has negative and positive effects which can affect one’s physical and mental state just
like the results mentioned. This can also influence a person’s career choice because a
teen will most likely follow the influence of his or her peers. Peer pressure can lead to
poor choices or a confused mindset. This is because most teens are still searching for
their identities. Peer pressure mostly causes conflict but it can also do good provided
that a group of friends will push a person to the right path (Damm 2017).

As stated by Kanhere (2018), peer pressure is a state that cannot be avoided

that most teenagers go through and it already became part of a person’s life because of
it is the most common. There are so many ways that peer pressure can affect one’s
decision making that varies in age, personality, and maturity. Peer pressure may have
this power to manipulate decisions through spoken, unspoken, and negativity when the
mind fails to discern between what is right and what is wrong.
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The final objective of this research is to determine if peer pressure is relevant

and helpful in making a career choice. Most of the respondents do not consider peer
pressure as a factor in making a career decision but some of the respondents consider
their friend’s choice because they value company and happiness when working in their
future jobs. The participants mostly focus on their own skills and own decisions when it
comes to their career but they still listen to the suggestion of their friends for a stronger
basis. A few participants believe that peer pressure manipulates and changes the choice
of someone. Some participants are neutral about it. The participants believe that it is
helpful in a way of looking at different insights but we must still follow our own choice
because we might find it difficult being in the wrong career path.

According to Parker (2017), the members of Generation Z endure a lot of

pressure on what they want to be when they grow up. Based on their research of the
Generation Z, it is understood that these young people are under intense pressure to
choose early and choose wisely so that they are able to earn money for a living. In
relation to this study, it clearly states this generation values the skills and the choice of
oneself over their peers.

The researchers have concluded that peer pressure does not have an influence
on most of the career choices of the Generation Z because they focus on their own
mindset and skills. There are also some cases of peer pressure that does not have much
effect over the decision making of the Generation Z as regards their career choices
although it has positive effects such as creating a challenging and livelier academic
experience.

The researchers therefore conclude that peer pressure is relevant and helpful but
depends on how it is followed and how the outcome plays out. It is important because it
gives insights but somehow gives risks of making a person choose the wrong career.
Thus, the researchers recommend that (a)students should be educated about peer
pressure. The mindset of peer pressure as a negative factor must be changed. It must
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be known to them that peer pressure also has positive impacts. The researchers also
recommend that (b)career counselors should conduct seminars to teach more students
to choose the right career. They must emphasize that they have to follow their own
mindsets and skills. The influence of peers must only be used to see different objectives
so they can weigh in their options. (c)Lastly, the researchers would like to advice the
future researchers to conduct a deeper study on this research. They must focus on the
specific parts of peer pressure such as the reasons on why they believe their peers.
They can use different methods of research to further understand the effects of peer
pressure and its outliers.