Document Type

Thesis - University Access Only

Award Date

1997

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department / School

Human Development, Consumer and Family Sciences

Abstract

This study sampled twelve mothers who home school their children and twelve mothers who send their children to public school and examined differences in values, functionality in their families of origin, and reasons for their school choice. The mothers in both samples were asked to prioritize values which they want to teach to their children. The values of autonomy and obedience were studied in particular. It was hypothesized that there would be a significant difference between the samples. T-tests showed no significant differences between the mothers in the sample. In one study conducted by G. Knowles in I 991, which studied home schooling parents, it was stated that most of the parents in the home schooling sample were raised in dysfunctional families. This study further examined this subject. Participants answered questions and completed the Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale in order to determine if they grew up in dysfunctional families. Chi- square and tests did not result in significant differences in family functioning of the participant's families of origin between the home schooling and non homeschooling samples. Previous literature which examined reasons why parents chose to home school is further supported in this study.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Education -- Parent Participation

Homeschooling

Public schools

Values

Format

application/pdf

Number of Pages

114

Publisher

South Dakota State University

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