Family Structure and Its Influence on Students' Well-Being and Decision-Making Skills

This study aimed to investigate the impact of family structure on the well-being and decision-making skills of 314 senior high school students from six secondary schools in Zamboanga City. Using a descriptive quantitative research design, results showed that most respondents were aged 18–20, female, Zamboangueño, from nuclear families, with low family income and rural backgrounds. Respondents rated their well-being—physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and intellectual—as "agree." In contrast, decision-making skills were rated as "strongly agree" for career decisions and "agree" for personal and relationship decisions. Findings revealed no significant influence of family structure on students' well-being and decision-making skills, except when grouped by sex. The study recommends enhanced support from the Department of Education (DepEd), school administrators, and teachers through capacity-building programs, career guidance, and value formation. Teachers are encouraged to provide instruction that fosters holistic development, while families should continue providing financial, emotional, and moral support. Future researchers may replicate the study in different contexts or locations.