Advisers

Jolly A. Miguel, EdD

Discipline

Psychology

Abstract

Peer groups strongly affect social decision-making in adolescence and young adulthood. This study assesses their influence on BCP Talent Center members’ conformity, independence, and social contexts like academics, activities, and moral choices. Using a descriptive correlational quantitative design, data were collected from 100 members via a validated Likert-scale survey. Demographics were gathered to examine peer influence, and statistical tools including mean, standard deviation, frequency, percentage, weighted mean, and Spearman’s rho were used to analyze levels and relationships. Most respondents were 19–20 years old and predominantly male. Findings showed a stronger tendency toward moral decisions, especially in risk-related and performance-based situations. Analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between peer influence and social decision-making (= 0.31, p = 0.002), indicating that peer groups substantially shape social decisions. Overall, respondents experienced a high level of peer influence in their decision-making processes. While peer influence was evident, respondents also showed considerable independence, balancing peer opinions with personal judgment. Moral decision-making was the most influenced area, emphasizing ethical considerations. The study concludes that peer groups significantly impact social decision-making in BCP Talent Center members, highlighting the need for programs that foster positive peer interactions and strengthen individual decision-making skills for responsible social behavior.

Keywords

Conformity, Peer Group Influence, Social Decision-Making, Independence, Academic Choices, Social Activities, Moral Decisions