Self-Esteem, Peer Influence and Academic Adjustment of High Ability Students in Ibadan Metropolis, Oyo State

Adjustment to school experiences, challenges and demands is a phenomenon that is inevitable in human life. The stress, pain and anxiety caused by poor academic adjustment from one stage of life to the other cannot be over-emphasized, especially, among high ability learners who are expected to perform excellently in school. This study, therefore, examined self-esteem and peer influence as predictors of academic adjustment among high ability learners in Ibadan Metropolis, Oyo State. The study adopted the descriptive survey research design of correlate type. The purposive sampling technique was used to select one hundred participants from two senior secondary schools in Ibadan Metropolis, Oyo State. The participants were screened using Slosson Intelligence Test and School Academic Record. Three research instruments used were: self-esteem scale, peer influence scale and Academic Adjustment Scale. Three research questions were raised and answered. Data were analysed using Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation and Multiple Regression at 0.05 level of significance. There was relationship between independent variables (self-esteem and peer influence) on dependent variable (Academic adjustment) of high ability learners (r=0.547, p<0.05). Self-esteem and peer influence determine the academic adjustment of high ability learners. There was composite contribution of self-esteem and peer influence on academic adjustment of high ability learners (r =0.634, p <0.05). There was relative contribution of self-esteem and peer influence on academic adjustment of high ability learners (r = 0.625, p < 0.05). Self-esteem and peer influence determined academic adjustment of high ability learners. Therefore, parents, teachers, and other stakeholders should be enlightened on the nature and needs of high ability learners and how they can help to meet with the needs. It is also to assist such individuals in the acquisition of vital knowledge and skills required for their social and emotional well-being.