Comparisons with Other Academic Subjects and Selected Influences on High School Students’ Attitudes Toward Social Studies

Abstract

Students’ attitudes toward social studies as influenced by selected demographic characteristics, study habits, and parental influence, as well as attitudes toward social studies compares with attitudes toward other major subject areas were examined in this study. High school students from 20 schools took part in the study. In support of recent research findings suggested that students generally held positive attitudes toward social studies and preferred social studies over other major subject areas. Black students reported the most favorable attitudes. Attrition in social studies attitudes did not occur until the senior year of high school. No differences were found in the attitudes of males and females toward social studies, but there were selected differences when social studies was compared to other major subject areas. The effects of multiculturalism and parental involvement among several issues are discussed in relation to high school students’ attitudes toward social studies.