Parental Involvement in Career Decision-Making – Managing expectations and student aspirations.

Course Description

This course delves into the critical role of parental influence in shaping students’ career decisions. It explores the dynamics between parental expectations, cultural values, and student aspirations, and provides strategies for fostering constructive communication and mutual understanding. Through theoretical frameworks, practical tools, and case studies, participants will learn to mediate between stakeholders, promote student autonomy, and guide families toward supportive, informed career planning. The course is designed for educators, career counsellors, and professionals involved in academic and personal development advising.

Course Objectives

1. To understand the psychological and sociocultural factors that influence parental involvement in career decisions.
2. To examine the impact of parental expectations on student motivation, stress, and career choices.
3. To develop communication strategies for addressing conflicts between parental desires and student aspirations.
4. To promote collaborative decision-making processes that respect both student individuality and family values.
5. To design interventions that support balanced, evidence-based career guidance involving both students and parents.

Course Outcomes

1. Analyse the influence of family dynamics and cultural background on career decision-making.
2. Identify and address potential conflicts arising from mismatched expectations between parents and students.
3. Facilitate open, empathetic conversations that empower students while engaging parents in the career planning process.
4. Apply practical tools and frameworks to mediate and manage expectation gaps in diverse educational settings.
5. Create inclusive guidance strategies that support student agency while maintaining healthy parental involvement.