A Study of Factors Affecting Parental Choice about Public and Private Institutions for their Children at Secondary School Level in District Bahawalpur

This study examines the complex factors influencing parental choice between public and private secondary schools in District Bahawalpur, Pakistan. Using a descriptive survey design with a validated instrument, data were collected from 196 parents selected through random sampling. The research employed sophisticated statistical analyses including Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Independent Samples t-test, One-Way ANOVA, and Multiple Linear Regression to identify key predictors and patterns in school selection. EFA revealed four reliable dimensions guiding parental decisions: Academic Quality & Reputation, Socio-Economic Factors, Physical & Extracurricular Facilities, and Parental Involvement & Safety. Regression analysis demonstrated that Academic Quality & Reputation (β = .481, p<.001) was the strongest predictor of private school preference, while Socio-Economic Factors (β = -.298, p<.001) served as a significant negative influence, emphasizing financial constraints as a major consideration. Parental education level and physical infrastructure quality also emerged as important positive predictors. Demographic comparisons showed significant variations in perceptions, with female parents demonstrating stronger agreement across all factors compared to male respondents. Additionally, higher parental age and educational attainment correlated with increased emphasis on academic standards and facility quality. The findings underscore the tension between academic aspirations and economic realities in educational decision-making. 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