Oppositional Defiance Disorder as a Predictor of Academic Performance of Emotional and Behavioural Pupils in Public Primary Schools Kisii County, Kenya

Abstract

The aim of this survey was to examine, oppositional defiance disorder as a predictor of academic performance among pupils in public primary schools in Kisii County, Kenya. This research used Descriptive survey research design helped the researcher understand individuals in terms of morality. The Study was delimited to oppositional defiant disorder and how it is affecting academic performance. Target population was 89 primary schools which was purposively selected based on researcher’s judgement and familiarity. The researcher selected the samples using stratified random sampling. Data collection methods were interview plans, questionnaires, and observation plans. One primary school was selected for the pilot project to test the validity and reliability of the research tool. Quantitative data was analysed using frequency counts, percentages, and descriptive statistics in the form of tables using SPSS computer programs, and qualitative data was analysed thematically. The survey established that teachers faced many challenges while instructing pupils in public primary schools. Head teachers and other stakeholders revealed that currently there are no intervention strategies in place to address the needs of pupils with oppositional defiance disorders in public primary schools. In conclusion, there were pupils with oppositional defiance disorders behaviours in school and to large extent there were no intervention or management strategies in place and teachers were not adequately prepared to meet the learning needs of these pupils which led to poor scores. The study recommends that the existing school programs should be strengthened to cater for the learning needs of pupils with oppositional defiance disorders and creation of inclusive schools to accommodate pupils with oppositional defiance disorders.