Unheard Voices: A Qualitative Analysis of Attitudes and Perceptions of Low?Income Urban High School Students Related to Counseling Needs

Abstract

This research investigation, was utilizes data from a larger qualitative study (Ockerman, 2006). This study explored the influence of a Midwestern school counseling and wellness center on the lives of the urban high school students. The purposeful sample was comprised of 16 urban high school seniors (i.e., 12 females and 4 males). The qualitative methodology included in?depth focus groups, individual interviews, and biographical questionnaires. Two themes emerged from the data: (a) the need for meaningful relationships, and (b) the need for acquisition of information and skills. Recommendations for practical applications and future research are included.

Lived Experiences of Low-Income, African American Males in a High School STEAM Academy: Implications for School Counselors

“…By employing various strategies and interventions, school counselors play critical roles in supporting students' academic, social/emotional, and college and career development (American School Counselor Association, 2019;Hines et al, 2020;Moore et al, 2009;Ockerman & Moore, 2008). Schools across the United States have struggled to engage and successfully support African American male students from low-income, urban communities (Hines et al, 2020;Moore et al, 2009).…”