The Psychological Effects of Parents Utilization of Vacation for Extra Lessons for their Wards and their Consequential Attitude to Learning in Public Primary Schools in Delta State

Abstract

This study investigates the psychological effects of parents' utilization of vacation for extra lessons for their wards and their consequential attitude to learning in public primary schools in Delta State. The correlational survey design was used. The study population includes 275 parents and primary school teachers from Delta State. A total number of 275 respondents consisting of 100 parents and 175 primary school teachers were selected from 10 primary schools from Delta State. In selecting primary schools, proportional stratified sampling technique was used. The 10 schools were selected from 6 local government areas across the 3 Senatorial Districts in Delta State. A questionnaire self - designed and titled “Psychological Effects of Parents Utilization of Vacation for Extra Lessons Questionnaire (PEPUVELQ)”, validated and its reliability equally determined via a pilot study using test re-test reliability technique with a coefficient index of 0.84 was used. Simple percentage, mean scores, standard deviation and coefficient of determination using 2.50 as benchmark to provide answers to the research questions. Pearson Product Moment Correlation Statistic was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed that psychological effects of parents utilizing vacation for extra lessons for their wards and the impact on students’ attitude to learning in primary schools in Delta State. In conclusion, the utilization of vacation lessons by parents can have both positive and negative psychological effects on children. While vacation lessons can provide academic benefits, enrichment opportunities, and structure, they can also lead to increased stress and anxiety, pressure to perform and meet expectations, limited downtime and relaxation, impact on mental health and well-being and potential negative impact on parent-child relationships. It therefore recommended that parents should consider individual child needs and boundaries. Set realistic expectations and goals. Parents are to engage other forms of learning that could be fun as well during the holidays. Encourage balance between work and play. Monitor workload and stress levels.