Attitudes of Students towards Seeking Counselling Services, the Case of University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwa, Ghana

Abstract

This study examined the attitude of students towards seeking counselling services in the University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwa (UMaT), Ghana. The behavioral theory of B.F. Skinner was adopted. Ex post facto research design was used for this study. The study population comprised 401students from second to final year. Simple random sampling technique was used to obtain the participants for the study. Descriptive statistics in frequencies and percentages were used to analyze the data generated by questionnaires and documents. The validity and reliability of the questionnaires were enhanced through pilot study. Validity of the instruments was done by experts in the field of guidance and counselling Unit. The findings showed that students had positive attitude towards counselling services in UMaT; there is no significant difference in counselling seeking attitudes in both male and female students; and students' attitudes were influenced by easy accessibility to the Counsellor; confidence in the Counsellor; the Counsellor's accessibility; among others. Based on these findings, it was recommended that,there should be provision of regular guidance and counselling programmes in the university since students have shown positive attitudes towards counselling services; and more Counsellors should be employed in the university since students are ready to take advantage of the counselling services