Guidance Services for Modifying behavioural Problems among Junior High School Students

Abstract

The study sought to examine the use of guidance services to modify the behavioural problem among Junior High School students in the Ellembelle District of Ghana. The embedded mixed-method approach was chosen for the research. A sample of 274 students and 16 headteachers and teacher counsellors were selected for the survey through cluster sampling, simple random and purposive sampling procedures. The quantitative data were collected using a student questionnaire, while a structured interview guide was used for headteachers and teacher-counsellors. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the quantitative data. The qualitative data were coded, transcribed, and grouped thematically. The findings indicated that lying, blurting out answers, lateness in school, and fighting/insulting fellow students were common behavioural problems exhibited among Junior High School students. The study revealed that problems at home and peer influence cause students’ behavioural problems. Guidance services, specifically counselling services, are the most used services in modifying the behavioural issues exhibited by Junior High School students. There was a significant gender difference between male and female students regarding behaviour problems. It was therefore recommended that school authorities should enforce school rules. Attention should be given to other guidance services in various schools since they help in the quest to reduce students’ behavioural problems.