An exploration of the role of parental involvement in the psychosocial development of adolescent learners in secondary schools.

Abstract

This study research aimed to explore the role of parental involvement in the psychosocial development of the adolescent learners in secondary schools. Literature reviewed revealed, dis-cussed the following topics: International background on parental involvement; challenges of parental involvement in the psychosocial development of adolescent learners, linguistic challenges; lack of educator training; contextual/community factors; lack of parental involvement, Theoretical framework, Theoretical significance. This qualitative case study purposively selected two secondary schools in the rural context of Pinetown District in KwaZulu-Natal. A sample of one Life Orientation teacher from each participating school, two parents from each school and a total of four learners from each school was selected. A total of four boys and four girls, in grade 10 and grade 11 from both participating schools. This study utilized semi-structured interviews with teachers, parents and focus group interviews were applied with adolescent learners. Data generated was analysed following thematic analysis. Themes that emerged included: The understanding of parental involvement in the psychosocial development of adolescents; the need for parental involvement in the psychosocial development of adolescents; the lack of parental involvement as a hindrance to academic performance of the adolescent learners and challenging school factors and the lack of parental involvement. All ethical issues were adhered to. Data that was analysed indicated that parental involvement has significant effects in improving learners’ psychosocial development which yields positive effects on improved academic performance; enhanced development of self-esteem in adolescent and surprisingly for parents as well. This research has proven that the role of parental involvement is important for secondary schools to adolescent learners in their development and to know themselves as they are developing at home, school and in community and as individuals as well as in building good relationships with parents.