Perceived Family Influence on Undergraduate Adult Female Students

Abstract

Adult women's decisions to attend college and persist toward degree attainment are likely influenced by family members from both family of origin and current family. This study was designed to examine (a) rated support of family members within the family of origin and current family to attend and persist in college, (b) specific attitudes of both families and their relationship to perceived support and grade point average, and (c) emotional and behavioral support of current family. Fifty-four female undergraduate students age 25 and older completed an online survey. Mothers were rated as most supportive of the decision to attend and support to persist. Other family members were reported as most supportive in the current family. While familial support was not related to grade point average, reported level of support to attend and persist in college was related with the family placing importance on academic achievement, relationships in the educational arena, and future goals. Differences between family of origin and current family surfaced. Behavioral and emotional support in the current family was related to overall support to attend and persist.