Effect of Parental Socio-Economic Status on the Performance of Senior High School Students in the Sefwi Wiawso Municipality in Ghana

Abstract

The study examined the effects of parental socio-economic status on the performance of Senior High School students in Ghana using the Sefwi Wiawso Municipality in the Western North Region of Ghana as the case. Descriptive survey research design was employed for the study. The target population of the study was 960 second-year students from four senior high schools in the Sefwi Wiawso Municipality. Using a formula, the sample of 203 students was determined.  The study found out that parents’ income has effect on students’ performance. The findings showed a significant effect of educational level of parent on students’ performance as well. Furthermore, a significant relationship between parents’ occupation and students’ performance was established. The study found that family environment has a positive relationship with the performance of students. The study also found a significant influence of socio-economic status of parents on students’ self-motivation for learning. It also revealed a significant influence of socio-economic status of parents on students’ performance. It is recommended that the government of Ghana should consider initiating policies that would empower parents, especially those in the areas where poverty level is high, for them to be able to take good care of their children in school.