THE EFFECT OF PERSONALITY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES ON THE FORMATION OF STUDENTS CHARACTER (1 - 18)

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine the effects of personality development program organized by the school counseling and guidance unit on the character of students. A total of 163 students (male = 70, female = 93) were selected using simple random sampling were given a questionnaire. While nine participants consisted of six students and three counselors were interviewed using purposive sampling. Questionnaire and interview protocol were developed by the researchers. Descriptive data were analyzed using frequency, mean, and percent while the interview data were analyzed manually through the stages of transcription, coding, category, theme and writing a report. The study shows that the majority of respondents had participated in three programs, namely motivation, leadership, and caring teachers. Personality development programs have an impact on seven aspects of student character which includes courtesy (M = 4.21), neatness (M = 4.14 ), leadership ( M = 4.02 ), self-concept ( M = 4.02 ), communication (M = 3.90), time management ( M = 3.89 ) and a caring attitude ( M = 3.83 ). Interview showed counselors and students agree that there is a positive effect. Interview of counselors and students also found that personality development program has had a positive effect on the character of students. Three main themes have been obtained which includes cognitive, affective and behavioral. Among them is this program has given insight to students about the importance of behavior change, brought about motivation and confidence, respectful social relationships and leadership, daring and challenging the ability of the students. Efforts to implement the guidance and counseling unit personality development program has a positive impact on students character.