Reasons for Dropout for Vocational High School Students

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the reasons for dropout for persons who have not completed vocational education programme and left school without a diploma. By using snowball sampling method, 19 persons, willing to participate in the study, were reached. Data were obtained by semi structured interview forms. In data analysis process, inductive content analysis method was used. Findings show that reasons for dropout can be divided into four categories as "individual", "school", "family" and "neighborhood based". Most of the families supported their children but some couldn't due to low socio-economic status. Attitudes and behaviors of teachers, peers and school administration have major effects on students who are at dropout risk. Most of the participants have never thought of returning back to school. And also, most of the participants did not find it necessary to talk with psychological guidance and counseling services. It is known that dropping out causes lots of problems socially and individually so some precautions should be taken to prevent it.