INFLUENCE OF FAMILY CHARACTERISTICS ON STUDENTS' ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE IN MATHEMATICS IN SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN BAYELSA STATE.

This study investigated the influence of family characteristics on students’ academic performance in Mathematics among senior secondary school students in the central senatorial district of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Specifically, it examined the relationships between family size, mother’s educational attainment, and father’s educational attainment with students' Mathematics achievement. The study adopted a correlational research design, and data were collected from 393 students using structured questionnaires and academic achievement records. The data were analysed using Point Biserial correlation to determine the strength and significance of the relationships. Findings revealed a weak but significant positive relationship between family size and students’ performance in Mathematics. A moderate and statistically significant positive relationship was found between mother’s educational attainment and Mathematics achievement, while father’s educational attainment showed a weak but significant relationship with students’ performance. The study concludes that family characteristics, particularly parental education, play a meaningful role in shaping academic outcomes in Mathematics. It recommends promoting adult education programs, encouraging greater parental involvement, and supporting responsible family planning as strategies to improve students’ academic performance in the region.