An examination of the relationship between University students' course choices and family functioning

Abstract

Educational researchers advocate that family functioning and adolescents’ career choices are related. It is argued that family functioning has a far greater impact on career choice than other important factors such as: gender, family structure, socio-economic status and parental education and occupation (Penick & Jepsen, 1992). The factors that contribute to family functioning include the following: parenting beliefs and behaviours, parental support and guidance, environmental influences and family members’ communication styles (Altman, 1997). The following research questions were explored: “Is family functioning associated with Maltese University students’ course choice?” And, “How is family functioning associated with Maltese University students’ course choice?” A survey questionnaire was administered to a sample of 527 students representative at the 95th% rate of confidence. The survey questionnaire, delivered by email, contained multiple-choice questions that shed light onto influences that families have on Maltese students. Data gathered was analysed using the multi-variate statistical method of regression. This research showed that a warm family climate eases students’ decision making processes with regards to career, in particular, the decision of which course to follow at the University of Malta.