A Comprehensive Review of Counseling’s Contribution to Student Character Development in University Education

Jeje Abdul Rojak; Abbas Sofwan Matlail Fajar; Didit Darmawan

Authors

Jeje Abdul Rojak Universitas Negeri Sunan Ampel Surabaya
Abbas Sofwan Matlail Fajar Universitas Islam Tribakti Lirboyo Kediri
Didit Darmawan University of Sunan Giri Surabaya

Keywords:

university counseling, student character, moral development, emotional intelligence, ethical behavior, higher education, reflective practice

Abstract

This literature review investigates how counseling contributes to the character development of university students. With reference to various references. This study synthesizes conceptual frameworks, empirical findings, and applied models that explain the relationship between counseling practices and students' moral formation. Results indicate that counseling supports the development of emotional intelligence, moral reasoning, identity integration, and prosocial behavior. Counseling is recognized not merely as therapeutic support but as a structured educational function embedded in student affairs and developmental curricula. It assists students in navigating value conflicts, reinforcing ethical behavior, and fostering reflective judgment. The discussion reveals that the effectiveness of counseling depends on its institutional alignment, counselor competence, and adaptability to diverse student identities. Group counseling, digital platforms, and cross-cultural approaches expand the reach and relevance of character education through counseling. The review concludes that counseling provides a unique channel for instilling integrity and civic responsibility within academic settings and suggests further research into its long-term influence on personal and social ethics.

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