Abstract

Peers can significantly shape a student’s spending habits by influencing their attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors. These influences can be both positive and negative, as peers can encourage responsible and informed spending while others can encourage excessive and unnecessary spending. This study was conducted to explore and understand the influence of peers on the spending habits of senior high school students using a basic qualitative research design. The purpose of this study was to assess the extent of peer influence on spending habits, explore the ways and the role of peer influence in shaping spending behaviors, evaluate senior high school students' understanding and emotional responses to peer influence, and examine both its positive and negative effects. A purposive sampling technique was used to select four grade 12 students from different strands from the senior high school students of Bacolod Trinity Christian School. Data were collected through face-to-face semi-structured interviews composed of 31 questions. After completing the interviews, the researchers transcribed the audio recordings and analyzed the data using the Qualitative Data Analysis Method, classifying them into codes, categories, and concepts. The study’s findings reveal that (1) Senior high school students follow peers whether they spend or save. (2) Peer influence shapes consumer choices. (3) Peers accept and respect each other instead of competing. (4) Peers positively influence senior high school students by being role models. (5) Peer pressure can positively or negatively impact spending. (6) Awareness and knowledge play a big role in one’s decision-making. (7) Senior high school students consider their financial status and needs when spending. (8) Peers influence the spending habits of senior high school students. (9) Senior high school students should spend for their own satisfaction.

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