Investigation of Counseling Services at Universities: Perceived Students’ Needs

Abstract

The purpose of conducting this study was to identify the counselling needs of students at higher educational institutions regarding the types of assistance students need from counselors. Students were asked to complete a needs assessment survey to determine the needs, thought to be of most importance. The needs assessment survey was divided into seven categories including; career counseling, social adjustment needs, academic counseling needs, psychological issues (fears & complexes), issues with teachers, self-identity related issues (self-esteem, self-actualization), health issues, peer effect. Conveniently selected 1056 students from four public and private sector universities of Lahore participated in this survey. Pairwise comparisons, using the Mann-Whitney U test were used. Students had the view that most of the time difficult tasks made them uncomfortable and tough circumstances shook their confidence. Findings of study showed that there was a difference in counselling preferences of undergraduate students. The students of 2nd semester were more concerned about getting information about their career. Undergraduate students of 1st semester needed guidance and counselling related to their health issues. Students ofsocial sciences needed more guidance for their health issues and they were more concerned about the negative effects of their peer company. Findings of this study can be used by universities
counselors and administrators to plan guidance and counseling programs to meet the needs of students.