Influence of Peer Group on Career Choice in Vocational Education Among Students in Kaduna State

This study examined the influence of peer group dynamics on career choice in vocational education among secondary school students in Kaduna State, North West Nigeria. Peer relationships during adolescence are well-documented as significant determinants of educational and occupational aspirations, yet their specific role in shaping vocational career choices in Nigerian secondary schools remains underexplored. The study adopted a descriptive survey design and recruited 400 SS3 students from 20 schools using stratified random sampling. The Peer Influence on Career Choice Scale (PICCS), a 35-item instrument, was administered and validated by educational psychologists. Analysis revealed that peer group influence significantly shaped students' preferences for or against vocational careers, with many respondents indicating they would opt for academic tracks to avoid peer ridicule. Male students were more susceptible than female students to negative peer pressure against vocational education. The study recommends the introduction of career guidance programmes that incorporate peer-led testimonials from successful vocational professionals, school-based career fairs featuring vocational role models, and formal peer mentoring schemes that positively reframe vocational pathways. Guidance counselors should work collaboratively with class prefects and peer leaders to cultivate supportive attitudes toward vocational careers. These findings provide valuable context for career counselors and policymakers seeking to increase enrolment in vocational education across northern Nigeria. Keywords: peer influence, career choice, vocational education, Kaduna State, adolescents.