The decision of African American students to complete high school: An application of the theory of planned behavior

A longitudinal study explored high school completion among African Americans. Male and female high school students aged 14 to 17 (N = 166) completed a theory of planned behavior (I. Ajzen, 1991) questionnaire early in their 2nd year. Intentions to complete the year were accurately predicted from attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control (R = .71; p < .01). Attitudes were related to beliefs about short- and long-term consequences; subjective norms reflected perceived expectations of family, teachers, and friends; and control considerations included requisite academic abilities, conflict with peers and teachers, and distracting life conditions. Intentions and, to a lesser extent, perceived behavioral control, predicted graduation almost 3 years later (R = .50; p < .01). The findings indicate opportunities for early interventions.