MST-Department of Psychology

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Relationship between Perceived Lack of Social Support and Self-Esteem among Adolescents with Hearing Impairment: A Case Study of Treeside Secondary School
(Kenyatta University, 2024-11) Mwangwale, Philip Mbogho
Adolescents with hearing impairments are often believed to experience low self-esteem due to multiple factors. Perceived lack of social support is one predictor of low self-esteem among these adolescents. This study aimed to explore the relationship between perceived lack of social support and the self-esteem of adolescents with hearing impairment in Treeside Secondary School in Nairobi County, Kenya. Specifically, it sought to determine the association between perceived lack of social support and self-esteem among this demographic. The research was guided by the following objectives: to assess the level of self-esteem among these adolescents; to investigate the relationship between appraisal, emotional, and companionship support from family and the self-esteem of adolescents with hearing impairment; to explore the link between informational/tangible support from close friends, significant others, and teachers, and the self-esteem of these adolescents; and to examine the association between perceived belonging and esteem support from peers, life coaches, and therapists, and the self-esteem of adolescents with hearing impairment. The study employed a correlational research design to establish connections between variables and was conducted in Nairobi City, involving a purposive sample of 62 participants. Two theories underpinned the study: the plasticity Hypothesis of Self-Esteem and Relational Regulation Theory. The Rosenberg Scale for Self-Esteem and the Interpersonal Self-Evaluation List (ISEL) were utilized to collect data. SPSS version 21 was used for data analysis, and the relationship between variables was determined using the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. Results revealed that adolescents with hearing impairment had an average self-esteem score of 16.56, calculated based on Rosenberg’s self-esteem scale. Moreover, perceived appraisal support, belonging support, and tangible support significantly predicted low self-esteem among these adolescents. The study found a correlation between low self-esteem and perceived social support. Policymakers should formulate policies for individuals with hearing impairment and other disabilities that foster appraisal support, belonging support, and tangible support.
Relationship between Classically Conditioned Cues and Harmful Alcohol Use among Kenyatta University Students in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2024-10) Micheni, Julian Makena
Overindulgence in alcohol among university students has been associated with negative outcomes worldwide. Numerous detrimental health and behavioral outcomes among youths, such as poor mental health and wellbeing, increased injury, being victims of crime, and subpar academic performance, have been connected to these observed alcohol levels. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between classically conditioned cues and harmful alcohol use among Kenyatta University students in Nairobi City, Kenya. The classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and social learning theories were used to guide the study. The study used the correlational research method, and the sample size was determined using the table created by Krejcie and Morgan (1970), yielding a sample size of 381 respondents. The researcher screened the general population of students using the World Health Organization Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) Volume 3.0. Questionnaires with Likert scale questions were also used to collect data. Those who met the criteria of moderately high or high risk were included in the study. Simple random sample design was used to select the study participants. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26 aided in the analysis of data from questionnaires. This data was subjected to both descriptive analyses using percentages and mean scores and inferential statistical analysis. Pearson correlation coefficient test to test the null hypotheses to establish if there are significant relationships between independent and dependent variables. The study established that a significant proportion of the respondents engage in regular alcohol consumption, with the majority (50.8%) consuming alcohol 1-4 times weekly. This indicates a potentially moderate level of alcohol use within the surveyed population. Also, a significant association was found between subjective mood, classical conditioning cues, and harmful alcohol use among students. There is a significant association between subjective mood classical conditioning cues and harmful alcohol use among students. The P-value in inferential statistics is 0.437, which is therefore an indication of a significant relationship between the two variables. There is a significant impact of situational classical conditioning cues on students' harmful alcohol use. P-value = 0.089 and <0.05, therefore an indication of a strong relationship between situational classical conditioning cues and harmful use of alcohol among students. The presence of drinking peers plays a significant role in shaping harmful alcohol use among students. r=0.364, which is <0.05. The results demonstrated a high percentage of students who agreed or strongly agreed with various statements regarding peer influence and alcohol consumption. Temporal conditioning cues significantly contribute to alcohol cravings among students, hence influencing harmful alcohol use. Among the recommendations, there is need for the university to develop and implement policies and practices in educational institutions, bars, and social venues within the institutions to minimize the visibility and availability of alcohol cues, especially for students living in the university’s halls of residence. This may involve strategic placement of non-alcoholic alternatives in shops and other outlets within the institution, minimizing alcohol-related visuals, and implementing responsible alcohol serving practices, especially close to learning institutions such as universities.
Relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Conflict Management among Woman’s Guild Leaders in Presbyterian Church of East Africa in Kiambu County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2024-11) Wambui, Grace Gathoni
PCEA and other churches experience conflicts due to diversity of opinion in deciding duties of the clergy, order of worship, allocation of mission funds and church participation in corporate social responsibilities. Emotional intelligence is expected to enable people to be in harmony with themselves and with other people. An emotionally intelligent person is supposed to be aware of self, self-regulate, motivated intrinsically, and empathetic and has social skills (Cherry, 2018). The current study’s purpose was to establish a relationship between emotional intelligence and church conflict management among woman’s guild leaders in the PCEA church Kiambu County, Kenya. The study objectives were be; to establish the prevalence of church conflict among woman’s guild leaders in PCEA, to determine the relationship between self-awareness and church conflict management among WG leaders, to examine the relationship between social skills and church conflict management among WG leaders and establish the relationship between empathy and church conflict management among WG leaders. The study used correlational research design. Dependent variable indicators were: ability to communicate openly in case of dispute, active listening, reviewing options and win-win solutions. A sample of 220 woman’s guild leaders who were selected from a target population of 415 PCEA Woman’s guild leaders. Multistage sampling was used to sample the population. Self-administered questionnaires designed for WG leaders were used in the collection of quantitative data. Interview schedule was used to collect qualitative data from WG chairpersons. Each questionnaire was divided into sections A-E based on research objectives. The instruments’ face, and content validity were achieved through expert advice. Internal consistency reliability was enhanced through pilot study involving 5WG leaders from Nairobi County whose results did not form part of the main study. The questionnaire had a Cronbach coefficient alpha 0.87 and the interview guide 0.74. Quantitative data was then analyzed by use of descriptive statistics namely mean, mode, percentage and frequency and inferential statistics were presented using tables guided by the Pearson correlation coefficient. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis which transformed qualitative data to quantitative based on study objectives which were then presented in terms of frequency and percentage. There is a strong relationship between EI and church conflict management. Permission to undertake this study was sought from Kenyatta University and others like, NACOSTI and Kiambu County local government. Findings obtained from this study will be useful in managing church conflicts among Woman’s guild members through emotional intelligence training and interventions. The findings will be of significance to Presbyterian Church of East Africa in understanding relationship between emotional intelligence and church conflict management among her members. Academic documentation from the study will be used for reference by those interested in understanding EI and church conflict management.
Impact of Stigma of Handling Dead Bodies on the Psychological Well-Being of Mortuary Workers in Nairobi County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2024-10) Wandati, Anne Njeri
Research has shown that stigma can lead to harmful effects on an individuals’ self-concept and their mental health. Many studies indicated that mortuary workers carry an important role in society by handling the dead bodies in preparation for burial or cremation on behalf of the bereaved families yet there were a few studies that have investigated the psychological effects of mortuary work on mortuary workers especially in the Kenyan context. This study sought to establish the impact of stigma on psychological distress of mortuary workers. Social stigma theory was used to inform the study. The researcher employed Concurrent triangulation design to determine the relationship between the independent variable, stigma and the dependent variable, psychological distress of mortuary workers in Nairobi County. Purposive sampling was used to select a sample of 60 funeral workers that handled dead bodies from public, institutional and private mortuaries in Nairobi County. The study adopted three different instruments- Kessler Wellness Scale (K-1O) to test anxiety and depression, Everyday Discrimination Scale to test perceived stigma experience and a self-developed individual interview schedule to assess perceived stigma. Descriptive statistics in form of frequencies and percentages were used to analyze demographic data while linear regression analysis was used to make inferences on collected data. The discrimination scale determined that most mortuary workers faced stigma, up to 46.7% receiving poorer service, 29.7% being considered worse than other people, and 57.5% being insulted. In addition, the Kessler Scale found that 43.5% of the respondents agreed that they experienced depressed mood over the past 30 days. Moreover, more than 60% established that they felt fidgety, nervous, sad, and worthless. Linear regression findings established that level of stigma had a statistically significant positive impact on psychological distress (β=0.305, p=0.002). The study recommended that mortuary workers be provided with professional support as well as funeral homes administrators improving working environment of mortuary workers through training and providing psychological help in order to mitigate the effects of psychological distress.
Relationship between interparental conflict and depressive symptoms severity among secondary school adolescents in Kiambu County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2024-05) Ngata Theresia Wangari
Conflicts are inevitable occurrences in human families from time immemorial. Disagreements and arguments between parents can be either constructive or destructive depending on the outcome on children’s psychological and social development. Constructive interparental conflicts are beneficial to children as they learn effective communication and problem-solving skills. However, frequent destructive interparental conflicts places children and adolescents at an increased likelihood of developing psychological and social adjustment challenges including aggression and depressive symptomatology. Studies in Kenya have pointed to an increase in interparental conflicts, however, there is a scarcity of literature on the relationship between interparental conflicts and depressive symptoms severity among adolescents. The objective of the current study was to determine the relationship between interparental conflicts and the severity of depressive symptoms in secondary school adolescents in Kiambu County. Emotional Security Theory guided this study. Correlational research design was employed. The targeted population were secondary school adolescents in Kiambu County. Stratified sampling technique was employed to group the students as per their gender and school type. Purposive sampling was utilized to get a sample size of 400 students. Data was collected using standardized instruments. The Children’s Perception on Interparental Conflict Scale (CPIC) was used to assess the type, frequency and cognitive appraisal of interparental conflicts while adolescent depressive symptoms severity was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9: teens). Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26 was utilized to code and analyze data. Descriptive statistics such as percentages, frequencies, mean and standard deviation were generated through quantitative data analysis. Pearson's Product Moment Correlation Coefficient was used to identify correlations between interparental conflicts and the severity of depressive symptoms in secondary school adolescents in Kiambu County. The findings indicated that there exists both constructive and destructive interparental conflicts in the families of adolescents in secondary schools in Kiambu County. On the frequency of interparental conflicts, 47.3% agreed that they often see or hear parents arguing, 41% regarded the claim as false whilst 11.6% gave a sort of true response. On the cognitive appraisal of interparental conflicts, 67.3% perceived a threat from the conflicts. Further findings on the severity of depressive symptoms manifested by the adolescents revealed that 38.6% of students had mild depression, 20% had moderate depression, 13.3% had moderately severe depression while 3.9% had severe depression. Study findings further indicated that destructive interparental conflict had a positive and significant effect (r=0.251, p=.000<.05) on depressive symptoms severity among secondary school adolescents in Kiambu County. The results also indicated that constructive interparental conflict had a negative but insignificant effect (r= -0.192, p=.000<.05) on depressive symptoms severity among secondary school adolescents. The study recommends the need for the Ministry of Education to hire counselors and psychologists to provide mental health services in secondary schools. This may assist students in managing depressive symptoms. The study further recommends the school management to introduce programs aimed at bringing parents and students together to discuss family issues affecting students’ mental health. The third recommendation is for parents to adopt healthy conflict resolution mechanisms.
Effectiveness of Psychological Intervention in Mitigating Occupational Stress among Nurses in National Hospitals in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-09) Maithya, Peter Mutiso
Occupational stress is a major world health hazard that affects the well-being of workers particularly those involved directly in provision of human services such as nurses and doctors. Studies have reported nursing as one of the most stressful professions. This implies that nurses are at high risk of experiencing occupational stress compared to other professionals. This research is prompted by many research findings revealing occupational stress as increasingly becoming a new health hazard of workforce globally. This study aimed at establishing the effectiveness of psychological interventions in mitigating occupational stress among nurses in Kenya and Nairobi County in particular. The study used a quasi-experimental design, and it targeted all nurses working in Kenyatta national hospitals and Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital within Nairobi County. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 150 respondents for the study. Data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation and a paired t-test. The findings were presented using tables, percentages, and pie-charts. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically and finally findings triangulated to establish the effectiveness of psychological interventions in mitigating occupational stress among nurses in national hospitals. The study found that nurses experienced some forms of occupational stress. The study also found that psychological interventions effectively mitigate occupational stress among nurses working in national hospitals in Nairobi City County. The study concluded psychological interventions effectively reduced levels of occupational stress among nurses. The study recommends that psychological interventions need to been enhanced in national hospitals across the country to reduce occupational stress among nurses.
Effectiveness of Group Psych education in Mitigating Occupational Stress among Nurses in National Hospitals in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2024-06) Mutiso, Maithya Peter
Occupational stress is a major world health hazard that affect the well-being of workers particularly those involved directly in provision of human services such as nurses and doctors. Studies have reported nursing as one of the most stressful professions. This implies that nurses are at a high risk of experiencing occupational stress compared to other professionals. This research is prompted by many research findings revealing occupational stress as increasingly becoming a new health hazard of workforce globally. This study aimed at establishing the effectiveness of psychological interventions in mitigating occupational stress among nurses in Kenya and Nairobi County in particular. The study used a quasi-experimental design, and it targeted all nurses working in Kenyatta national hospitals and Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital within Nairobi County. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 150 respondents for the study. Data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation and a paired t-test. The findings were presented using tables, percentages, and pie-charts. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically and finally findings triangulated to establish the effectiveness of psychoeducation in mitigating occupational stress among nurses in national hospitals. The study found that nurses experienced some forms of occupational stress. The study also found that psychological interventions effectively mitigate occupational stress among nurses working in national hospitals in Nairobi City County. The study concluded psychological interventions effectively reduced levels of occupational stress among nurses. The study recommends that psychological interventions need to been enhanced in national hospitals across the country to reduce occupational stress among nurses.
Relationship between Perceived Parental Involvement and Adherence to Treatment of Adolescents in Rehabilitation Centres in Kiambu County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2024-06) Kabogo, Sharon
Adolescent substance use is a concern to families, schools, psychologists, and society at large as it hampers the ability to achieve personal and national goals. Despite the government’s intention to institute policies to assist with adolescent treatment, there is scarce information on parental involvement in adolescent treatment while in rehabilitation. The purpose of the study was to determine the relationship between perceived parental involvement and adherence to treatment of adolescent in rehabilitation centres in Kiambu County. Based on family interaction theory, the study utilized a correlational design to establish the relationship between the study variables. The population targeted was all adolescents undergoing treatment in various rehabilitation centres in Kiambu County. Multistage sampling was used to obtain the sample. It involved identifying the rehabilitation centres that admitted adolescents and secondly identifying the adolescents to participate in the study. A questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze demographic factors, levels of adherence to treatment and perceived parental involvement. Correlation between perceived parental involvement and adherence to treatment was established using Spearman’s Rank correlation coefficient. The study found that adolescents living with single mothers scored higher on adherence to treatment. It also found that adolescents rated their fathers’ involvement higher than their mothers’ involvement. There was a markedly weak relationship between perceived parental involvement and adherence to treatment among adolescents. The study recommended that counsellors and psychologists working in in-patient treatment facilities make considerations for the nature and form of maternal involvement to ensure that mother-child dynamics do not dilute the effectiveness of treatment programs.
Relationship between Family Resilience and Relapse Risk among Discharged Substance Users Attending Alcoholic Anonymous Groups in Nairobi City County; Kenya.
(Kenyatta University, 2024-04) Kibera,Tabitha Susan Wanjiku
Relapse is the greatest hindrance to fight against drug and substances abuse globally because it makes it very hard for people to stay away from substance abuse even after they have utilized resources in rehabilitation process. Understanding all the aspects that impact relapse either positively or negatively is the foundation of understanding measures that can be established to curb this menace hence the importance of this investigation. The investigation aimed to determine whether a relationship between family resilience and relapse risk existed among discharged individuals with SUD attending alcoholic anonymous groups in Nairobi City County, Kenya. Study objectives included to determine the level of resilience among families of discharged substance users, to determine the status of relapse risk among discharged individuals with substance use disorder, and to establish the relationship between family resilience and relapse risk among the discharged substance users attending alcoholic anonymous groups in Nairobi city County, Kenya. The Alcoholic Anonymous groups is an aftercare program often used by recovering substance use disorder individuals. The study employed a correlational research design using self-administered questionnaires to collect information on both relapse risk and family resilience. A sample of 93 respondents participated in the study. The theoretical framework used was Family Adjustment and Adaptation Response (FAAR). The SPSS version 23 was used to analyze the data that showed significant correlation between family resilience and relapse risk. This concluded that individuals with higher family resilience have a lower risk of relapse to substance use disorder. The findings have a major implication for relapse prevention such as recommending that facilitators at the alcoholic Anonymous groups help recovering substance users explore their relationship with their loved ones. This would ensure that the individuals worked on their resentments.
Relationship between substance abuse and sexual violence among women in informal urban settlements in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2024-06) Sitati, Vivian
Sexual assault is against the law in Kenya. Yet many people, particularly women and girls, continue to experience Sexual and Gender-based Violence (SGBV) without receiving much assistance, suggesting that the regulations in place are ineffective. Drug and substance abuse has also become prevalent especially among persons living within informal urban settings. This with the attendant rise in cases of domestic and SGBV means that there is a growing need for a deeper understanding of the nexus between drug abuse and sexual violence against women, and in particular, within Nairobi's informal urban settlements. Many women in Kenya have experienced sexual or physical assault. The research was guided by the following objectives: to determine the prevalence of substance-related sexual violence among women in Nairobi City County's informal urban settlements; to determine the relationship between substance abuse and sexual violence among women in Nairobi City County's informal urban settlements; and to formulate interventional measures to address the problem of substance abuse and sexual violence in informal urban settlements. The Social Learning Theory and Socio-Cognitive Theory guided this research. The study used a correlation study design with a target population of 139 women in the groups who have experienced GBV and SGBV. Using stratified selection, purposive sampling, and proportional sampling approaches, the Yamane formula was utilized to choose 106 respondents. Information was gathered through questionnaires and focus group talks. Descriptive statistics like frequencies, means, and standard deviations, as well as inferential statistics like Pearson moment correlation and chi square analysis, were used to analyze the data. Women may get information about sexual abuse and its link to drug misuse as a result of this research. This assisted them in understanding the significance of remaining sober and accepting responsibility in order to make sensible, informed judgments at any moment. from the study it was indicated that, both substance abuse and sexual violence have got tremendous negative consequences on the health, socioeconomic, emotional and psychological disposition of a person. Alcohol, cigarettes, bhang, and khat were among the drugs that were most frequently abused. The study also demonstrated the rise in drug and substance abuse led to increase in cases of sexual violence. This shows that efforts to combat drug use and substance abuse have not been successful. Therefore, the study suggests that the government develop more potent methods of combating drug use and substance abuse
Relationship between Perceived Adverse Working Conditions and Psychological Distress among Police Officers in Embu County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2024-04) Mugo, Linet Muthoni
Evidence shows that police officers normally work in an environment characterized by shootings, exposure to death, life-threatening experiences such as riots, and pressure from management commonly referred to as adverse working conditions. These conditions are likely to affect their psychological well-being and resulting into anxiety and depression. Studies have indicated that police officers sometimes contend with challenging working conditions, however, as much as some of these officers appear to thrive, they get affected by such conditions. The general objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between perceived adverse working conditions and psychological distress among police officers in Kenya. Specifically, the study adopted the following specific objectives to: Determine the state of adverse working conditions, investigate the relationship between anxiety and psychological distress, examine the relationship between depression and psychological distress and assess the relationship between self-harm and psychological distress among police officers in Embu County. The study was anchored on Affective Events Theory and the Person-Environment Fit Theory. Correlational research design approach was used to investigate the relationship between adverse working condition and psychological distress. Viechtbauer (2015) formula was used to calculate a sample size of 294 participants drawn from 1234 police officers based in Embu County via stratified and simple random sampling technique. Data was collected from 294 participants using a mixed questionnaire that incorporated two measurement tools; Kessler Distress Score and Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, specifically Pearson Correlation, with the assistance of SPSS software version 28.0. The study found out that over 44% police officers experienced psychological distress associated to adverse work environment, over 46% had had experienced anxiety through perceived adverse working conditions, where workplace factors, such as safety, discrimination, and workload, exhibited significant correlations with psychological distress. The study again found out that over 43% police officers had psychological distress associated with depression from work environment as demonstrated by officers having suicidal thoughts, guiltiness and lonely. It was also found out that majority of respondents over 42% were exposed to self-harm tendencies. These highlights the profound impact of adverse working conditions on the mental well-being of police officers in Embu County. The study therefore, recommends that work conditions of police officers needs to be improved through effective workload management, establishment and implementation of comprehensive safety protocols, provision of better equipment, conflict resolution training, and providing emotional support for police officers.
Relationship between Maladaptive Cognitions and Levels of Internet Use among Students in Public Day Secondary Schools in Mombasa County, Kenya.
(Kenyatta University, 2024-06) Waithira Charlene
There is increased internet access and usage among secondary school students in Kenya, as a result of available internet connection through mobile phones. Many adolescents in Kenya own smart phones or can at least access one thus increased likelihood of unhealthy internet use levels that can impact their lives negatively. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the connection between dysfunctional cognitions patterns and the extent of internet usage among students attending secondary schools in public day schools located in Mombasa, Kenya. To accomplish this, the study aimed to: evaluate the extent of internet utilization among secondary school students attending public day schools in Mombasa County, examine the typical internet usage patterns of secondary school students in public day schools in Mombasa County, gauge the presence of maladaptive cognitions regarding internet use among secondary school students in public day schools in Mombasa County, ultimately, establish the connection between maladaptive cognitions related to internet use and the levels of internet usage among secondary school students in public day schools in Mombasa County. The study's theoretical foundation was based on the Cognitive Behavior Model of Excessive Internet Usage. It employed a correlational research design to determine the connections between the variables. The study's target population wasstudents attending secondary schools in Mombasa County's public day schools. Multi-stage cluster sampling was used to select three Girls’ schools, three Boys’ schools and three mixed schools. In the subsequent phase, 45 students were chosen from each of the nine schools that were part of the study, resulting in a combined sample of 405 students. Data collection involved the utilization of a selfreport questionnaire and two standardized tools. The data analysis encompassed descriptive statistics, which included frequencies and percentages, as well as Pearson's Coefficient of Correlation, denoted as 'r,' to assess the extent of the relationship between internet usage levels and maladaptive cognitions. The study found that there was a significant correlation between maladaptive cognitions and unhealthy internet use levels. The findings may help counsellors, educationists, teachers and parents to come up with effective prevention programs and intervention measures for unhealthy internet use levels
Percieved Role of Mourning Rituals on Grief Resolution to Immediate Family Members of the Deceased among the Luhyia People in Busia County, Kenya.
(Kenyatta University, 2024-05) Omunyin, Maximilla Nangira
Though Christianity and modernization have greatly influenced the mourning process and death rituals, many communities in the world still perform their traditional rites for the dead. Some communities purely bury their loved ones solely guided by traditions (Mwandayi, 2011), others use combined approaches with religious beliefs and modern methods while others accept purely modern or religious burial and mourning practices. These practices presumably have psychological effects on the grieving individuals. With the different approaches of mourning processes, this study sought to establish the effects of mourning rituals on grief resolution to immediate family members of the deceased among the Bakhayo, Basamia, Bamarachi, Banyala, to mention but a few in Busia County. The research was informed by the Kubler-Ross Theory of Grief and the Continuing Bonds Grief Model developed by Klass, Silverman, and Nickman. The study was conducted using descriptive and correlational research designs. 205,136 people living in Funyula and Nambale Sub-Counties were the study's target group. A total of 400 residents were included in this research study. Descriptive statistics was employed to examine demographic data and address the research questions, while linear regression was used to analyze the study's hypothesis. The researchers employed a non-probability sampling method to ensure that that target group is drawn within the population from the Sub-Counties. The actual participants for the study were selected purposefully from each Sub-County. To test the research instruments, a pilot study was conducted, involving 40 individuals from Butula Sub-County hence the main study was conducted in Funyula and Nambale Sub Counties. Data collection involved the use of a questionnaire. To test the hypothesis, linear regression was employed. The results indicated that majority of the bereaved (54%) had high level of grief resolution. Results from a linear regression analysis showed that there is an association between mourning rituals and grief resolution (=0.321, p=0.009). The findings further established that 67.7% of the bereaved had a positive psychological effect in the use of morning rituals. The anticipation is that the findings from this study will be valuable for families and religious leaders, aiding in their understanding of the significance of mourning practices observed by certain families. This will shed light on why individuals and families continue to embrace African cultural practices for therapeutic purposes.
Relationship Between Disney Cartoon Program Watching and Prosocial Behavior Among Children Between Age 7 and 11 in Nairobi City County Kenya.
(Kenyatta University, 2024-07) Mokua,Olipha Mokeira
There is a significant change in children's lives today, including education, play, sociability, eating habits and dress code. Social media greatly impacts children, leading to the replacement of traditional family lifestyles with modern ones. Media can influence societal views and alter behavior subtly yet powerfully. This study aimed to establish the relationship between watching Disney cartoons and prosocial behavior among children aged 7 to 11 in Nairobi City County, Kenya. The study was informed by the social cognitive theory. A correlational research strategy was used. The study targeted 7,500 pupils from six primary schools in Nairobi County, with a final sample size of 308 pupils. Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire. Findings on the relationship between children's prosocial conduct and viewing Disney cartoons were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations, and presented in tables. The relationship between watching Disney cartoons and prosocial behaviors was examined using Pearson's correlation coefficient and presented in tables. Strategies to promote prosocial behaviors due to Disney cartoon watching were analyzed using descriptive statistics and presented in tables. The study found out that Disney Cartoon Program watching influences behavior change on children between the age of 7 and 11. This study therefore, recommends that policymakers in Kenya's film industry ensure that Disney films shown on Kenyan channels promote morals and prosocial behavior among children. The researcher further recommends future research on the role parents play in the amount of time children spend watching cartoons and the type of cartoon programs they watch
Examining Interaction between Economic Marital Power and Marital Satisfaction among Tea Laborers in Muranga County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-11) Wangari, Samuel Mwangi; Fabio Ogachi
Over the past decades, the shift on economic power dynamics in marriages has significantly influenced marital relations. The traditional view of men as sole providers and decision makers in the family has been challenged. The active involvement of women in provision of financial resources has led to a shift in power dynamics in the farnily. Considering the patriarchal African family system, the shift in power is bound to have some impact on marital satisfaction. The study examined interaction between economic marital power and marital satisfaction among tea laborers in Muranga County. The independent variable was economic marital power and dependent variable was marital satisfaction. The objectives of the study were to determine dynamics of economic marital power, to find out experiences of marital satisfaction, and to examine interaction of economic marital power and satisfaction among tea laborers. Assumption of the study was that finances play a significant role in marital relationships. The equity and gender role theories informed the study. Pilot study was carried out on twenty participants ten male and ten female in a factory that was not part of the main study. The study applied qualitative method and phenomenological design whereby data were collected through focus group discussions and interviews. The target population was married tea laborers in Muranga County. The sample size comprised of forty participants who were purposely sampled for the study comprising of twenty men and twenty women. Thematic analysis was used in analyzing the data qualitatively. Demographic data was presented in tables and graphs while the rest in narrative format. The research provides insights on the economic power dynamics and satisfaction in marriages. The results on dynamics of economic marital power revealed that men have more income than women. However, men are not the sole decision makers as traditionzlly held but both husbands and wives participate in financial decision making. On marital satisfaction, the findings show that having own income and sharing of financial decisions enhances marital satisfaction. On interaction between dynamics of economic marital power and marital satisfaction, the results show that husband income, sharing financial decisions and saving money contribute to marital satisfaction. Married women are overcoming patriarchal dominance by gaining economic power in their marriages. This is because women are providing and making decisions in their marriages. Marital satisfaction among married couples can be enhanced by encouraging both men and women to earn own income and share financial responsibilities. Limitation of the study is that data cannot be generalized to other populations. Future research can be conducted on the dynamic of economic marital power and marital satisfaction in high income couples, especially where wives earn more than the husbands.
Role of the National Police Service during Public Health Emergencies: A Case of Covid-19 Pandemic in Mombasa County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-10) Khalil, Dhulkifly Hemed; Phelista Marura Musili
Abstract
Students' Perception of Counselling Core Conditions and its Influence on Utilization of Counselling Services Among Students in Public Secondary Schools in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-07) Nyandoro, Adolphine Nyaboke; Thomas Kinga
Counselling in secondary schools is crucial because it helps students reach their full potential. Despite its clear benefits, students in public secondary schools rarely make use of counselling services. While researchers have explored many causes of low utilization of counselling services the influence of students' perception of the counsellors’ core conditions on utilization of counselling services among students has not been adequately addressed. Therefore, this study sought to determine the influence of students' perception of the counsellors’ core conditions on utilization of counselling services among students in public secondary schools in Nairobi City County. The study was founded on the Carl Rogers, Person-centred/Client-centred theory. A descriptive study design was used to guide the study. The target population of the study was 49,707 students in public secondary schools in Nairobi City County. The study involved 413 students and 10 school counsellors from 10 ten public secondary schools located in Nairobi City County. Both probability and non-probability sampling methods were utilized in the study. The ten public secondary schools with functional counselling departments were selected using the proportionate sampling technique, which represented the 87 public secondary schools in the county. The stratified sampling technique was then employed to create strata based on the year of study, including forms two, three and four students from the selected sub-populations. Participants were selected from the identified strata in the selected schools using simple random sampling. A pilot study was conducted among 40students. Data was collected through questionnaires. To test the hypothesis, linear regression was employed. The results indicated that majority of the students (61.4%) had a positive perception of counsellors’ empathy, Results from a linear regression analysis showed that students' impressions of the counsellors 'empathy significantly affected how often they made use of counselling services (=0.167, p=0.002). The findings further established that 70.5% of the students had a positive perception of counsellors’ genuineness indicating a positive significant influence on students ‘utilization of counselling services (β=0.171, p=0.049). 64.3% of the students also had a positive perception of counsellors’ unconditional positive regard indicating a positive significant influence on student's utilization of counselling services (β=0.158, p=0.009). Further findings established that 89.5% of the participants agree that confidentiality should be maintained and 86.2% noted that counsellors should be professionally trained to be more skilled. The study concluded that students need counsellors who can assure them of confidentiality and keep it. The research recommends that policy makers, school administrators and counsellors should put in place measures to ensure that school counsellors acquire counselling skills that enhance professionalism and great ethical practices in schools.
Influence of Covid-19 Preventive Measures on Psychological Well-Being of Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education 2021 Candidates in Mombasa County Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-11) Gachungi, Catherine Karimi; Simon Ndirangu
Coronavirus, COVID-19, hit the world late 2019 and heavily in 2020 requiring governments to set in place preventive measure to curb the spread of the virus. Among the measures set were school closures and social distancing. To mitigate the lost school hours, schools resorted to online learning. While several researches had been conducted on the area of COVID-19 preventive measures on psychological well-being, the majority of the studies focused on students in general without being specific to candidates whose psychological well-being might have been affected given the proximity to sitting a summative examination which determined their future careers. To fill this gap in knowledge, this research project was aimed at establishing the influence of COVID-19 preventive measures on psychological well-being among the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education 2021 candidates in Mombasa County, Kenya. The study’s research objectives were: to assess the levels of psychological well-being of KCSE 2021 candidates; to find out the influence of schools’ closure; assess the influence of social distancing; and determine the influence of online learning, on the psychological well-being of KCSE 2021 candidates from secondary schools in Mombasa County, Kenya. This study used the ex post facto and the cross-sectional research designs. All the 8840 KCSE 2021 candidates in Mombasa County formed the target population. This study sample size was 384 KCSE 2021 candidates; and 11 teachers who were key informants, one from each of the national, county, Sub County, and private participant schools from Mombasa County. Respondents were sampled through simple random sampling. Collection of primary data was via a questionnaire sent online. The study used descriptive statistics in analyzing data collected and findings were presented in percentages and frequencies. Multiple linear regression analysis was used for inferential statistics Findings showed that the psychological well-beingof KCSE candidates was very unhealthy (42.5%). Analysis of findings also consluded school closure had a negative and significant correlation with psychological well-being of KCSE 2021 candidates. Further results showed that social distancing had a negative and significant correlation with psychological well-being of KCSE 2021 candidates. Additionally, results suggested that online learning had a negative and significant correlation with psychological well-being of Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education 2021 candidates. The study concluded that students access to services offered at school was below average (36.5%) The study further concluded students experience of social distancing was very negative (34.6%). These affected their psychological well-being. Findings of this study may be beneficial to schools’ guidance and counseling departments as well as the Ministry of Education in understanding and identifying the psychological needs of secondary school students as a result of COVID-19 preventive measures and thereby enable them to develop strategies to mitigate any negative effects. The Ministry of Education may consider providing outreach counseling services targeted at the candidates. The candidates may also benefit from the knowledge generated and this may inform their seeking psychosocial support to manage any negative effects. The study recommended that, timely assessments of secondary schools students’ psychological well-being needed to be done so as to monitor their status. Holistic intervention procedures may also be beneficial to the secondary school students. This therefore calls for combined efforts of psychologists, psychiatrists, and other health practitioners to apply treatment strategies.
Selected Factors Related to Utilization of Counselor Supervision among Counsellors Registered with Kenya Counselors and Psychologist Association (KCPA) in Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-11) Oliech, Sylvia; Thomas Kinga
Despite the critical role played by counsellor supervision in the counsellors’ professional and personal growth of counsellors many studies report low utilization of supervision services. Several studies have attempted to determine the cause of low utilization of counsellor supervision. This study sought to determine selected factors related to utilization of counselor supervision among counsellors registered with Kenya Counselors and Psychologist Association (KCPA). The study employed a correlational research design. The target population was 2561 counselling professionals registered with KCPA. Multistage sampling including stratified, proportionate and simple random sampling was used to obtain a sample of 139 counsellors and 55 counsellor supervisors who took part in the study. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to analyze the data. The study revealed that female counselors had higher levels of utilization than male counselors however relationship was not statistically significant ( χ2 (1) = 5.141, p > 0.05). The study found a statistically significant positive correlation between work experience and utilization of counselors supervision (rs(174) = .173, p <.05). It also study also established a positive relationship between counselors’ attitude and utilization of counselor supervision (r (174) = .268, p<0.05). A statistically significant positive relationship between counselor-supervisor relationship and utilization of counselor supervision (rs (174) = 0.156, p>0.05) was also observed. the study recommended that professional bodies should offer counsellor supervision services as part of the professional development programs for counsellors. It should also sensitize the members on the critical need for counsellor supervision as a requirement for professional and personal growth. As well counsellor supervisors should be trained on the skills to nurture and maintain a professional relationship with their supervisees as a step towards enhancing the utilization of counsellor supervision services.
Relationship between Group Culture and Athletic Performance among Sportsmen and Sportswomen at Kenyatta University in Nairobi City County, Kenya
(Kenyatta University, 2023-11) Kashamba, Grace Buyanzi; Buyanzi Kashamba
The concept of group culture provides a foundation for the behaviour, attitudes, communication and values for team members. It has been integrated in sports, where it allows sports women and sports men to bond creating a norm of behaviour and routine that directly influence how the team functions and performs. Even so, it has contributed to social anxiety and stress and the negative impacts of peer pressure among sports men and women. Kenyatta University is a recognized sports hub, producing talent who compete at both local, regional, and global levels. This study researched on the influence of group culture on the athletic performance of sports men and sports women at Kenyatta University. Consistently, three major constructs of group culture, which are social anxiety, stress, and peer pressure, were studied. The research resulted in the formulation of a model that would be utilized to understand how to enhance the performance of sports men and women at Kenyatta University through group culture. The theory that was used for this study was operant conditioning by B. F Skinner. The behavioral approach considers that to maintain being a good performer in sports, one has to learn skills and unlearn the ones with a negative outcome. The research employed a correlational design. The independent variable was the group culture (social anxiety, stress, and peer pressure) while the dependent variable was athletic performance. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26.0 was utilized to analyze the data. The study was conducted at Kenyatta University, the main campus in Nairobi City County, Kenya, since this is where the sportsmen and sportswomen were easily found, considering the institution offers grounds where they come for training daily. The target population was the sportsmen and sportswomen who actively participate in the games and represent Kenyatta University in various league matches. The target population was approximately 606 athletes. The sample consisted of 241 sports men and sports women from the different games at Kenyatta University. Examples of the games include hockey, football, and basketball. The sampling technique used was simple random sampling, whereas questionnaires were used to collect data. The data analysis used in this study is quantitative analysis to investigate the relationship between group culture and athletic performance among sportsmen and sportswomen at Kenyatta University in Nairobi City County, Kenya. The outcome from this study revealed that higher levels of peer pressure and social anxiety and stress were linked to decreased athletic performance, while greater implementation of group culture interventions was associated with improved athletic performance. The research resulted in measures that will form a model expected to assist the coaches in knowing how to enhance the group culture of their sportsmen and sportswomen, which may, in turn, improve their athletic performance.