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ST. RITA’S COLLEGE OF BALINGASAG, INC.

Balingasag, Misamis Oriental 9005
PAASCU Level II Re-Accredited: Junior High School
(Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities)
SY: 2024-2025

THE IMPACT OF SCHOOL UNIFORM POLICIES ON STUDENT

BEHAVIOR AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE A COMPARATIVE
ANALYSIS OF PROS AND CONS

A Research Paper

Presented to Ms. Alma Macabinlar Salosiran

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements of the Subject

Practical Research

By:
Shiori Abe
Angelo Troll Babia
Ej Baldon
Aliyah Faith Betoy
Princess Casey P. Corona

G10 – Mary Mediatrix Of All Graces

(Date of final submission)

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ABSTRACT
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INTRODUCTION

The issue of school uniform policies is a highly sensitive and complex topic that has
sparked extensive debate among various stakeholders, including educators, parents,
policymakers, and students themselves. Discussions surrounding the implementation
and impact of school uniforms have persisted for years, with advocates and opponents
presenting compelling arguments to support their respective positions. Proponents
argue that requiring students to wear uniforms fosters a sense of discipline and order,
creating an environment that encourages respectful behavior and adherence to school
rules. They also contend that uniforms help reduce social divisions among students by
eliminating visible economic disparities, ensuring that students from different
financial backgrounds are not judged based on their clothing choices. By
standardizing attire, they claim that school uniforms contribute to a more focused,
distraction-free learning atmosphere, where students are less concerned with fashion
trends and peer comparisons.

However, critics of school uniform policies raise concerns regarding individual

identity, self-expression, and personal comfort. Opponents argue that enforcing a
uniform dress code may suppress students’ ability to express their personalities and
unique identities through their clothing choices. Many believe that adolescence is a
crucial period for self-discovery and personal development, and restricting students'
ability to choose their attire could hinder their creative expression and individuality.
Furthermore, some critics question whether school uniforms genuinely contribute to
improved discipline and student behavior. While schools worldwide have
implemented strict uniform policies in an attempt to standardize student conduct,
there is ongoing debate about whether these measures have a tangible impact on
discipline levels. Some studies suggest that uniforms do not significantly influence
student behavior or academic performance, while others indicate that any benefits
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gained may be marginal at best. Given these differing perspectives, the debate on
school uniform policies remains a relevant and ongoing discussion in the education
sector, requiring further research and careful consideration to determine the true
impact of these policies on students' experiences and overall school environments.

A few studies published in the last couple of years by Ansari, Shepard & Gottfried
(2021) outline important evidence regarding the effectiveness of school uniform
policies, especially concerning student behavior at the high school level. A nationally
representative survey of 6,143 students across a range of schools that compared those
in uniform to those not showed there was no difference in their behavior. Thus,
although increased attendances were noticed among the low-income students in the
uniformed schools, which was observed to be less than a day per year, the other
findings do not imply much relevance that linked the policies with the reduction in
behavioral issues. This implies that more research is needed, particularly for high
school students, as discussed in the next section. This paper has demonstrated that
analyzing these policies requires knowledge of the various factors explained above for
educational leaders seeking to make proper decisions. Furthermore, Brookshire
(2022) noted that high schools with enforced functionality have a tendency to be rated
higher in terms of the community morale and safety impression. On one hand,
through enforcing unity among students, the moral benefits from wearing uniforms
can decrease rates of bullying—a factor that potentially enhances the general
atmosphere of the school positively. The concern with strengthening school
community and minimizing interferences is a significant idea among those who
support the usage of the uniforms. Another article from Nord Anglia Education (2023)
supplements this idea by arguing that the policies of banning uniforms can help to
remove the visibility of economic disparities among children, subsequently helping to
relieve pressure in dressing among children. This might be especially important in
diverse classrooms where students come from different economic statuses because a
more shared policy on dress code is said to achieve the result of leveling down social
power relations. It is also imperative to focus on the matters arising from the
perspectives concerning school uniforms, including the financial prospects of the
school accounts. Some people claim that in contrast with buying different clothes,
uniforms can be less expensive for families because clothes are used throughout many
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years for different seasons, and trends don’t cost money. In a blog by The Royal TX
from 2024, one of the primary benefits of wearing uniforms is that the social
prejudices connected with students originating from low-income families will be
reduced thanks to wearing uniforms. As reported by The Week (2025), uniforms can
minimize socioeconomic disparities and lessen bullying incidents, as students of
diverse backgrounds wear the same attire. This view is also seen in community
debates, which are covered by the Philippine Star, such as in the view discussed above
that there is nothing to criticize about the idea of wearing a uniform because they
make the students feel that they all belong to one school. The concept of less
distinguishable clothing may reduce the risk of bullying due to apparel, an important
factor for schools in building a positive learning climate. Besides calling for equal
rights, advocates of school uniforms say that the regalia increases discipline and
concentration at schools.

However, there are always arguments against the use of school uniforms in the course
of their adoption. One risk factor is human rights restrictions, especially on freedom
of expression. The Freeman (2023) reveals that clothing or fashion, to be precise,
plays an important aspect of self-expression for teenagers. Horning-based opinions
claim that obligatory garments may restrict students’ individuality and produce
frustration in individuals, especially in youth ages, which is rather important for the
formation of personality. Similar opinions are expressed by Filipina students and
community members who believe that it is quite possible that school uniforms do not
appeal to the Philippine culture. Financial costs form part of the contentious issues as
well. In the Philippines, the issues related to the cost of specific uniforms remain an
issue because, in some cases, expensive or branded clothes are inevitable. A report
made by GMA News (2023) highlights how financial impacts of uniform policy put
high pressure on parents with low income, parents who have other financial struggles.
The need to obtain specific forms or brands can deepen existing injustices, since
children need certain items for school, forcing some families to struggle financially to
get a uniform for their child.
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This discussion is particularly relevant when analyzing cases of disadvantaged groups

of people with scarce access to resources. Uniforms may reduce the financial burden
better than constantly changing clothes in a more varied wardrobe look. It is also
important to understand that the effectiveness of school uniforms somewhat depends
on the type of school environment. For instance, some research indicates that private
institutions, where uniforms are often viewed as a symbol of prestige, might yield
different outcomes compared to public schools, where the rationale behind uniform
policies may stem from a desire to promote equality. Understanding these nuanced
differences can help educators and policymakers tailor their approaches to meet the
specific needs of their institutions, thereby enhancing the efficacy of uniform policies.
This research aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse surrounding school uniform
policies by closely examining the advantages and disadvantages of these policies as
they specifically affect high school students.

This study will assess whether uniforms indeed encourage improved discipline, lead
to a decrease in bullying, and facilitate heightened focus on learning. By filling
existing gaps in the literature, this study will offer recommendations for future
educational policies regarding uniforms. An essential part of this research will involve
surveying high school students from both public and private schools, gathering
insights on their experiences and perceptions regarding the influence of school
uniforms on their behavior, discipline, concentration, and engagement in class
activities. This qualitative data will help illuminate the multifaceted nature of school
uniform policies, enhancing the validity of the research findings. Additionally, the
methodology employed in this research will consist of quantitative responses gathered
through questionnaires and interviews. High school students will provide insights
regarding their perspectives on whether school uniforms influence their self-
expression, feelings of confidence, and financial implications for their families. By
concentrating on students within diverse educational settings, the research aims to
document the variety of experiences and outcomes associated with uniform policies in
public and private high schools.

Objectives:

 To examine the impact of school uniform policies on student discipline.

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 To assess whether school uniforms contribute to a reduction in bullying

incidents.

 To analyze the effects of school uniforms on student concentration and

engagement in learning activities.

 To explore the financial implications of school uniform policies for students

and their families.

 To compare the perceived benefits and drawbacks of school uniforms in public

and private high schools.

The outcomes of this study will be invaluable for policymakers, educators, and
parents. It will elucidate the positive and negative effects of school uniforms, which
will be The outcomes of this study will be invaluable for policymakers, educators, and
parents, offering insights into both the benefits and drawbacks of school uniform
policies. By examining their impact on student behavior, discipline, and engagement,
this research will help refine policies that balance equality and individual expression.
Incorporating real student experiences from both public and private schools, it aims to
provide well-founded recommendations for future uniform regulations, ensuring they
effectively support student well-being and academic success.
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METHODOLOGY

This study uses a quantitative approach to examine the effects of school uniform
policies on junior high students' behavior and attitudes. A cross-sectional survey was
conducted with 100 students (50 from public schools and 50 from private schools)
selected through non-random sampling. The goal is to provide objective insights into
the impact of school uniforms on student behavior.

Research Design

This study utilizes a cross-sectional survey design to explore the relationships

between school uniform policies and their effects on junior high school students'
behavior and attitudes. The independent variable is the implementation of uniform
policies, categorized by the presence or absence of uniforms in public and private
schools. The dependent variables—behavior and attitudes—are measured through
surveys and focus group interviews. By collecting data at a single point in time, this
design facilitates the comparison of these variables across diverse school settings to
identify meaningful patterns and relationships.

Research population

The research population includes junior high school students in grades 7-10, aged 12
to 16, from public and private schools within a defined area. Representing diverse
cultural, socioeconomic, and academic backgrounds, the study seeks to explore the
impact of school uniform policies on student behavior. By including students from
both public and private schools, the research enables a comparative analysis of
outcomes related to uniform policies across different educational settings.
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Sample Selection Methodology

The study will use a non-random sampling method, meaning we'll select participants
based on their availability. We’ll be surveying groups of students we come across in
various school settings, like classrooms or common areas. Our goal is to gather a total
of 100 students—50 from public schools and 50 from private schools—so we can
effectively compare the two groups. When selecting students, we’ll reach out to those
who seem willing to participate. To help with this process, we’ll create a list of
enrolled students at each participating school. To qualify, students must be in grades 7
to 10 and agree to take part in the survey or assessments. Unfortunately, those who
don’t meet these criteria or choose not to participate will not be included in the study.

Theoretical Framework

This study on school uniform policies is informed by several key theories. Social
Learning Theory suggests that students are likely to mimic positive behaviors seen in
peers and teachers wearing uniforms. The Theory of Planned Behavior emphasizes
that students' attitudes and their social environment influence their reactions to
uniform rules. Institutional Theory indicates that uniforms can foster a more focused
academic atmosphere, while Equity Theory highlights their potential to reduce
feelings of inequality among students. Collectively, these theories illustrate how
uniforms can influence student behavior, attitudes, and performance.

Data Gathering Tools

The study will utilize multiple tools to evaluate the effects of school uniform policies
on junior high school students. A structured survey questionnaire will serve as the
primary tool, featuring closed-ended questions to assess student behavior, attitudes,
and demographic data. Focus group interviews with 6-8 students from diverse
backgrounds will provide deeper insights into their experiences with uniforms. These
methods will combine quantitative and qualitative data to comprehensively
understand the impact of school uniforms on student behavior.
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Data Gathering Procedures

The data gathering process will begin with the non-random selection of junior high
school students from public and private schools within the defined area, based on
availability and chance encounters. Participants will then complete a structured survey
questionnaire in paper format to ensure consistency. A smaller subset of students will
be invited to focus group interviews, conducted in a quiet, controlled environment to
gather deeper insights into their experiences with school uniforms. These methods
will provide comprehensive data for analyzing the impact of school uniform policies
on student behavior.

Treatment of data

The data treatment process will begin with cleaning the data by identifying
incomplete responses and outliers through methods such as z-scores or boxplots. We
will ensure data validity by checking that ages fall within the 12-16 range. Survey
responses will then be coded into numerical values—for example, "Yes" will be
assigned a value of 1, and "No" will be assigned a value of 0. The data will be entered
into statistical software such as SPSS or Excel, using double entries to minimize
errors. For data analysis, we will use descriptive statistics to summarize trends and
patterns. This will involve calculating measures of central tendency (mean, median,
mode) and measures of dispersion (range, variance, standard deviation) to evaluate
the impact of school uniform policies on student behavior.

Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations are key in this study to ensure participants' rights are respected.
We'll clearly explain the study's purpose, procedures, and any potential risks, and we'll
obtain voluntary consent from the students involved. While we don’t need parental
consent, students can choose to participate willingly. We’ll keep all personal
information confidential and anonymous. Participation is completely voluntary, and
students can opt out anytime without consequences. We’ll also make sure to use
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respectful, non-invasive questions to avoid any harm. Overall, we’re committed to

maintaining honesty and integrity throughout the research process.