Peer group influence and academic performance of secondary school students in english language

Discussion
The hypothesis sought to investigate the relationship between peer group 
influence and academic performance of secondary school students. The result of 
the hypothesis reveals that there is a significant relationship between peer group 
influence and the academic performance of students. The finding is in tandem 
Electronic copy available at: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3606183

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with Morrish (2002) says that the individual child is motivated not simply by his 
or her own basic needs and drives, but also by stimulation provided by his or her 
peers. The motivation goes a long way by influencing the academic performance 
of the student. Ryan (2012) observes that association with friends who serve as 
academic resources could have direct and positive influence on students’ 
achievement at school. According to the author, parents may have less influential 
role than peers’ influence. 
Peer influence establishes values, attitudes, self-esteem and peer tutoring. 
The finding of this study reflects what Ryan (2012) has noted, that when teachers 
become less supportive and more indifferent, peer group influence takes the upper 
hand in changing students attitudes to school. This will not be the case if teachers 
were deeply involved in students’ affairs. A typical student learns from his/her 
discussions with peers and is motivated to learn more. Peers can be motivated by 
working together. The quality of peers could affect a wide range of students’ 
academic outcomes. This finding concurs with that of Landau (2002) that students 
who form positive peer group make more effort during learning also fear to 
engage in delinquent activities.
CONCLUSION /RECOMMENDATION 
From the result it was clear that there is significant relationship between peer 
group influence and academic performance of students. Based on the finding, 
Electronic copy available at: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3606183

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it was recommended that students should be advised by teachers and parents 
on the kind of friends they keep.