Master of Arts in Counseling

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Prevalence of night bedwetting among children aged ten to fourteen years. A case of boarding primary schools in Maara district- Kenya
(KeMU, 2012-04) Muthuri, Mercy Kathoni
Night bedwetting is the most prevalent and chronic of all childhood problems. The experience, particularly of the older children can be extremely distressing and limiting. Most bedwetting is just a developmental delay, not a physical illness. Bedwetting children can suffer emotional stress or psychological injury if they feel shamed by the condition. The study was carried out to establish the prevalence of bedwetting and its effects on school going children aged 10 to 14 years in public boarding primary schools in Maara District, Kenya. The study used a descriptive survey design. The study was guided by Erik Erikson’s theory of personality development. The district has nine public boarding primary schools with a population of 3067 pupils. A sample of 341 pupils was selected using stratified random sampling. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires. The data was analyzed using computer-based Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS). The study established that bed wetting is a common problem to most children and it greatly affects children emotionally, psychologically and socially. It was established that the major causes of bed wetting include genetic factors, stress factors, deep sleeping and taking much fluid, especially in the evening. This condition is contributed by pupils being teased by other colleagues and also being isolated from social groups which lead to low self-esteem among bed wetting pupils since they felt embarrassed, frustrated, ashamed and shy about their situation. The study further established that it is not the fault of the child to have this condition and therefore, it is the duty of caretakers to ensure they help children with this condition since most of them have self-limiting problems which can be solved and this problem controlled. The study recommends that: teachers should involve learners in guidance and counseling programmes to discourage shyness and other emotional problems; parents should seek medical advice in order to identify factors that could be contributing to bedwetting. In addition teachers should also hold private discussions with parents of bed wetting pupils and individual pupils in order to identify factors contributing to bed wetting and how the problem can be solved.
Factors influencing non-adherence to antitroviral therapy (ART) among people living with hiv/aids (PLWHA): A case of Isiolo district, Kenya
(KeMU, 2012-06) Godana, Robe
In HIV/AIDS treatment adherence to antiretroviral therapy is of paramount importance. To achieve suppression of viral replication, decrease in viral load and improving quality of life needs near perfect adherence of 95%. The researcher had sort to establish factors influencing non adherence among people living with HIV/AIDS in Isiolo District. The researcher used descriptive survey design. Sample population of 193 participants which is 30% of the 640 total study populations was used. This was obtained from the district comprehensive care clinic through document analysis. The raw data was collected using structured questionnaires and focused group discussion which was cleaned, classified, coded processed, analyzed and presented using pie-charts, graphs and tables. Findings show: individual’s income, multiple drugs combination, health care workers perceptions, beliefs and taboos influence non adherence to antiretroviral therapy while counseling helps to create positive altitude and minimizes stigma. The study recommends: Ministry of Health with other stakeholders to solicit funds to form support groups that will stabilize clients emotionally, psychologically and economically. To improve infrastructure, health care workers and public perceptions and altitudes through trainings, public education, barazas and pamphlets. Free treatment of opportunistic infections for patients with pneumonias, malaria and others infections to minimize admissions and improve quality of life.
Factors contributing to marital break ups and the counseling implications. A case of the Anglican church membership in Taita District.
(KeMU, 2012-06) Lizzie, Mwanyalo Machocho
Marriage is an Institution which is culturally respected and jealously guarded. This is because both the Church and the nation begin from marriage. There are however many challenges in this institution which if not handled skillfully could cause marital break ups. Such break ups affect the individuals concerned negatively and this impact is felt in the society. The study is guided by choice theory which explains that all we do from birth to death is behave. We choose how to behave in different situations and our behavior will either positively or negatively affect us significantly. The theory further explains that human beings are social and they need to receive and give love. If this need is not met, they are pained and look for things to do to make them feel better. Such choices may strain their relationships and cause marital break ups. The study examined the factors contributing to marital breakup and whether pre-marital counseling takes place. It also determined whether pre-marital counseling can prevent marital break ups in the Anglican Church in Taita District. The findings of this study will be used to improve on the counseling services in various institutions including the church. The study was carried out in Taita District of Coast Province in Kenya. This study recommended that similar studies should be carried out with a larger sample to establish the state of marriages and the effects of marital break ups in families. It recommended that studies should be carried out to establish the effectiveness of priests as counselors. The study adopted the descriptive survey research design. The design was appropriate for obtaining factual and attitudinal information for research questions on characteristics and present or past behaviors. This design is most frequent used for the collection of information about people's attitudes, opinions or habits on any of the variety of education and social sciences. The findings of the research will make an impact on the lives of people in Taita District and the Country as a whole. The sampling of the study was done using cluster, simple random and purposive methods which finally gave one hundred and eighty two respondents from eight parishes. Two types of questionnaires were used to collect data; one for sampled couples and single members of the churches and one for the priests/counselors. The questionnaires were pilot-tested to validate and determine their reliability. The collected data was then analyzed using the descriptive statistics method where percentages, frequencies and means presented in tables, pie charts and bar graphs were used. The study findings indicate that marital break ups in the Anglican Church in Taita District are mainly caused by finances, infidelity, communication and sexual dissatisfaction. Pre-marital counseling takes place in the Church but very little post-marital which contributes to marital break ups. The findings also indicated that both pre and post-marital counseling services are necessary to alleviate marital break ups. The study therefore, recommended that the major factors contributing to marital break ups should be given more sessions during pre-marital counseling. Pre-marital counseling should also be made meaningful and there should also be a follow-up after marriage.
The role of counseling and parental involvement in behavior modification of secondary school students: A case study of Imenti South District
(KeMU, 2012-06) Ruth, Thambu Gakii
Today almost all schools have established a proper guidance and counseling programme. Since i inception many emerging issues that require guidance and parental involvement have continued to persist, for instance drug abuse, physical and Emotional abuse, undesirable sexual behavior, peer pressure, unrest in schools, violence and acts of arson. This is the background under which the research on the role of counseling and parental involvement in behavior modification of secondary schools students concerned itself with. This research was carried out in Imenti South District and the respondents were students from 69 public secondary schools. The research design was descriptive survey because it required the respondents to describe the influence of counseling and parental involvement in modeling behavior of secondary school students. Data collection was done mainly by use of questionnaires. The data was analyzed by use of Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) and descriptive statistics and frequencies determined. Presentations were done in form of tables for easier understanding. The study found out that involvement of the parents in counseling to modify teen's behavior would save them from involvement in acts such as lesbianism, homosexuality, alcoholism, drug abuse, violence and illegal gangs. The teenagers lacked proper parenting, guidance, and parental love, poor relationship between parents and teenagers and lack of role models among others. The study also indicated a need to merge the school and parental counseling to avert cases of indiscipline and misbehavior among students. Recommendations were that inclusivity of all parties, teachers, parents, and the curriculum as well as restriction to the social media is important for the behavior modeling of the teens in high school. Teachers Service Commission should therefore ensure enough supply of personnel to offer the counseling services. The school administration should lay down integrated strategies for school-based family counseling so that the students are holistically molded in behavior. The Ministry of Education should make counseling a core component of school curriculum so that behavior learning is part and integral to core learning process. Those students who are seeking further research familiarity in areas related to this study could also find it of importance. With the authority of the university and the researcher, they could access this information.
Assessment of nutrition counseling services offered to diabetic patients and its effect on adherence to therapies and treatment at the Nakuru Provincial General Hospital, Kenya
(KeMU, 2012-06) Karanja, Lucy W
Poor health has been a global issue which has been associated with the impediment of productivity, economic growth and poverty eradication. It has been estimated that 32 percent of the global burdens of disease are caused by dietary complications. All millennium development goals are in one way or the other related to good nutrition intake. Nutritional Counseling has been credited for ensuring that people are aware of their dietary choices hence avoiding nutritional complications. This is more essential to diabetic patients. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of Counseling services offered to diabetic patients in Nakuru Provincial General Hospital, Kenya. In order to have the study carried out successfully, a descriptive survey was used to assess the effectiveness of nutritional Counseling services. The sample consisted of 283 respondents that included 8 dieticians and 275 diabetic patients. Stratified random sampling where the total population was split into two distinct samples (diabetic patients and dieticians) based on their demographics. After obtaining permission from all relevant authorities, the researcher collected the data in form of responses through structured questionnaires. Expert judgment was used to improve on content and construct validity of the items. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyze the data. The study established that there was a significant relationship between the patient’s nutritional knowledge and recovery rate. Majority of the patients were not adhering to the recommended therapy. There was a statistically significant influence of nutritional counselors’ knowledge of diabetic management and diabetics’ recovery rate. There was also a significant relationship between the economic status of patients and adherence to therapy. This study recommends that the government must take an active role in promoting the nutritional counseling services offered in hospitals by employing more dieticians, intensifying awareness campaigns on the recommended diet for the diabetics. Civil society and religious groups must also take an active role by holding workshop and seminars to sensitize the community about the diabetic condition, psychological support and fighting against stigma to the patients. Additionally, dieticians need to be aware of the current recommendations for diabetic patients so as to pass it on to their clients. Male nutritionists/dieticians should also be trained to encourage more male patients to attend counseling sessions. The researcher suggests a further research on the level of stakeholders input in promoting nutritional counseling in hospitals and an assessment on whether patients actually adhere to the diet by doing a 24 hour recall.
Factors that influence participation of youth in church growth and development: A case study of Runogone Circuit, Kaaga synod
(KeMU, 2012-06) Kagwiria, Mutua Catherine
The. purpose of the study was to identify, psychosocial factors that influence the participation of the youth in church growth and development. The world we are living in today has brought a lot of changes in human life and caused great effect to many. The youth, especially, have been held or tied by some other factors that have led them to forget the church. The number of youth is declining as years go by. Environmental factors bring many changes to the lives of everyone these days especially due to technology leading to non-participation. Other factors like secularism, lack of parental commitment to the lifestyles of their children and the way in which the old church denominations have held to the old systems of running the church has much affected the youth. In order to satisfy themselves the youth look for alternative ways. In this study, case study research design was used. The target population comprised of all Christians of Runogone Circuit because it was a case study. They included 130 men 200 women and 259 youth members. Questionnaires were administered through the chair person's men fellowship, women fellowship and the youth. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results of the study were presented in frequency tables and percentages. The study concluded that; Secularism affects the livelihood of young people by tying them to the worldly affairs hence • driving them away from participation in church growth and development; Environmental factors also affect the youth participation in church growth and development. Parents give the youth either too much freedom or are less concerned in what activities they undertake towards church growth and development. The church leaders in their bid to protect the church to its tradition have made the youth to run away from the church, some to the upcoming denomination and others run completely away from church. On the basis of the study findings, recommendations were made that; the church should take the first step in trying to encourage the youth to participate in church growth and development and teach them on the need to serve God, the church should teach young people on the effects of the environmental factors and how these factors can affect their lives. The youth should be educated on the effects of negative behavior, drug abuse and lack of being responsible to themselves. Parents should be in the frontline to cultivate the behavior of their children at an early age so as to encourage them to be responsible. Before handing over the children to the church, the parents should prepare them in their background at home. The church leaders should set good examples to the youth and try to embrace change without losing the focus of the church that they may retain and attract the youth back to the church.
assessment of nutritional counseling services offered to diabetic patients and its effects on adherence to therapies and treatment at the Nakuru Provincial General hospital.
(KeMU, 2012-06) Karanja, Lucy W.
Poor health has been a global issue which has been associated with the impediment of productivity, economic growth and poverty eradication. It has been estimated that 32 percent of the global burdens of disease are caused by dietary complications. All millennium development goals are in one way or the other related to good nutrition intake. Nutritional Counselling has been credited for ensuring that people are aware of their dietary choices hence avoiding nutritional complications. This is more essential to diabetic patients. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of Counselling services offered to diabetic patients in Nakuru Provincial General Hospital, Kenya. In order to have the study carried out successfully, a descriptive survey was used to assess the effectiveness of nutritional Counselling services. The sample consisted of 283 respondents that included 8 dieticians and 275 diabetic patients. Stratified random sampling where the total population was split into two distinct samples (diabetic patients and dieticians) based on their demographics. After obtaining permission from all relevant authorities, the researcher collected the data in form of responses through structured questionnaires. Expert judgment was used to improve on content and construct validity of the items. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyze the data. The study established that there was a significant relationship between the patient's nutritional knowledge and recovery rate. Majority of the patients were not adhering to the recommended therapy. There was a statistically significant influence of nutritional counselors' knowledge of diabetic management and diabetics' recovery rate. There was also a significant relationship between the economic status of patients and adherence to therapy. This study recommends that the government must take an active role in promoting the nutritional counselling services offered in hospitals by employing more dieticians, intensifying awareness campaigns on the recommended diet for the diabetics. Civil society and religious groups must also take an active role by holding workshop and seminars to sensitize the community about the diabetic condition, psychological support and fighting against stigma to the patients. Additionally, dieticians need to be aware of the current recommendations for diabetic patients so as to pass it on to their clients. Male nutritionists/dieticians should also be trained to encourage more male patients to attend counselling sessions. The researcher suggests a further research on the level of stakeholders input in promoting nutritional counselling in hospitals and an assessment on whether patients actually adhere to the diet by doing a 24 hour recall.
Effects of alcoholic parents on children's behavior peer relationships: A case of Imenti North District: Meru county - Kenya
(KeMU, 2012-07) Nyaga, Mary Wanja
Research among families of typically-developing youth suggests that parents help their elementary school-age children make friends by networking with other parents to arrange social opportunities for their children, modelling positive interpersonal skills themselves, and coaching their children during peer interactions. Because play-dates (arranged play periods between two children outside of organized activities, usually at one child's home) are considered essential for close friendships to deepen, parents are particularly suited to help their child make friends. Parents' warmth towards their children, parents' own skilled social interaction with other adults, and parents' facilitation of the child's peer interactions all were correlated with children being better accepted by peers Parental behaviors may encourage children's good peer relationships. Alcoholism parents therefore, may not provide the required support to their children to necessitate good peer relationships and may also be a major cause of family problems which may adversely affect children. Family problems can have damaging effects on children's• peer relations. For example, children of divorcing parents may act out feelings of anger at school, eliciting rejection from peers in the process. Children with family problems, such as parental alcoholism, may be reluctant to bring friends home, avoiding close friendships as a result. Due . to poor parenting and modelling from alcoholic parents, some children behave in an aggress~ or disruptive manner and, hence, are rejected by peers. Other children withdraw from peer interactions and, in this way, limit their ability to gain acceptance and friendship. The intention of the researcher in this research was to evaluate the impact of parental alcoholism on children's peer relationship aged between 10-15 years in Miiriga Mieru East Division, Imenti North District, in Meru County. The study covered three out of the five slums within Meru Town. The significance of this study was to promote children's peer relationship particularly with the help of their parents. The study limitations included unmet expectations by the slum environs which made the respondents hesitant to answer questionnaires. The study used ex post- facto and survey designs. The population was 388 children and 191 parents from which a sample size of 191 children and 73 parents was selected from the three slums i.e.( Shauri Yako, Mjini and Majengo ). Stratified random sampling and simple random sampling methods were used for. Self¬scoring questionnaires and oral interviews were used to collect data from the respondents. The researcher used computer based statistical packages for social sciences (SPSS) version 7.1 to analyze data. Tables with figures, graphs and charts were used to summarize the results. Analyzed data were interpreted, conclusions made and recommendations put forward in order to address the observed problems facing COAs in their peer relationships. The researcher after the research findings concluded that there are various ways through which children's peer relationships are affected by parental alcoholism. These effects hindered the socialization in peer groups between COAs and non- COAs which is an essential aspect in children's development. The researcher also gave some recommendations with the focus of improving peer relationships among COAs and non-COAs for healthy developments. These recommendations include educating parents more on the effects of parental alcoholism on the children's relationship with peers, establishing counselling set ups in schools to help COAs, training non-COAs so that they are able to accept COAs and value them among others.
Occupational stress among probation officers in central province of Kenya
(KeMU, 2012-07) Muteshi, Eugene Musoga
Probation is a people business, oftentimes requiring intense, stressful confrontations with unmanageable offenders. Presently, there are more felons receiving probation than ever before. The impact of current probation supervision conditions on probation officers has not been fully documented. Since human capital is the greatest investment an organization can make, the ongoing assessment and management of employee stress effects becomes critical to maximizing the effectiveness of probation. Considering the fact that probation officers have contact with more offenders than most other justice practitioners, and probation caseloads have continued to increase at unprecedented levels, there is a need to understand more about the work of probation. The proposed study sought to investigate occupational stress among probation officers in Central Province of Kenya. It aimed at determining the prevalence, the causes and effects of occupational stress among probation officers, and the role of counseling in addressing occupational stress among the officers. The Rational Emotive Behavioral and Person-Environment Fit Theories formed the theoretical framework of understanding the concept of occupational stress. The study was conducted in Central province of Kenya. The population of the study comprised of 98 probation officers serving in Central Province at the time of the study. The study employed convenient sampling of the existing five counties in Central Province to arrive Nyandarua and Nyeri Counties. All the officers in these two counties totaling to 24 were the respondents of this study. Structured questionnaires were used for data collection. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used, and methods of data analysis included percentage score and mean. Data presentation was done by the use of tables. The findings revealed that probation officers experienced normal range of occupational stress with mild levels of stress on Role Ambiguity and Responsibility with combined T-scores of 57.92 and 51.04 respectively. Low remuneration, lack of sufficient resources to carry out job responsibilities and lack of opportunities for career development were found to be significant causes of occupational stress among probation officers. These causes of occupational stress were organizational in nature and not job related. The effects of occupational stress on the officers that were found to be statistically significant (p<0.05) were burnout, demotivation, anxiety/depression, conflict with colleagues, and low productivity. Counseling was cited by the respondents as being functional and pivotal in addressing incidences of occupational stress among them through referrals for counseling, psych education, supervision and debriefing. The study findings are useful to the probation department in Kenya in developing policies and effective Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) and other strategies for prevention and management of stress among probation officers. Furthermore, this study on occupational stress among probation officers in Kenya enlightens the public more on this crucial yet less recognized element of the criminal justice system.
Coping strategies for widows : A case of Meru South District of Tharaka-Nithi county
(KeMU, 2013-04) Muthengi, Njoka Henry
The purpose of the study was to high-light the success story cases of widows who had successfully coped with widowhood, explore the secret behind their success and use this information to empower other widows who are living with widowhood. The study examined the adjustment strategies employed by widows in adjusting to widowhood. The significance of the study was to serve as an encouragement to widows to cope with widowhood and supply widows with useful information on adjustment strategies and on how to cope with widowhood and be respected in the society as heads of their families and also provide them with useful and relevant accounts of how other widows were able to cope with widowhood as well as providing valuable source of information to scholars and professional counselors in the field of counseling on how to help widows acquire valuable adjustment strategies on how to cope with widowhood. The study used qualitative design and was carried out among 46 widows who are struggling to cope with widowhood and who were purposely selected through purposeful sampling. The data was collected using self-scoring questionnaire for widows. Validity of instruments was achieved using the modified questionnaire; piloting and consulting supervisors who ensured that the questionnaire captured the objectives of the study. The data was analyzed using frequency percentages and was presented using tables and pie charts. The study established that the development of adjustment ( coping) strategies was affected by the social-economic status of the widow, age, widows religious group and the degree of commitment to a particular religion, closeness to her children, relatives, friends, community and widows support groups among other factors. The study recommended a countywide study on the coping strategies of widowhood be carried out, involving such communities as pastoralists' communities, slums and urban population among others, that a legistration be put in place to protect the rights of widows and an office be established to deal with the initial trauma, and protect widows from various forms of abuse and exploitation.
Influence of peer counseling in curbing substance abuse; a case of public secondary schools in Imenti North District: Meru county - Kenya.
(KeMU, 2013-06) Gichuyia, Hellen Kaari
Substance abuse has become a major challenge among secondary school students in Kenya. A number of studies carried out in the country show that, almost every Kenyan youngster at one time or another has experimented with drugs, especially beer and cigarettes. The major cause of concern is that a significant proportion of these young people eventually get addicted; posing a threat to their health and safety, while creating difficulties to their schools, families and the public at large. Peer pressure plays a major role in influencing students into substance abuse. In fact, peer influence is the main factor in the first stages of substance use and subsequent abuse among secondary school students. Peer counselling is presumed to be the main solution to this menace. The Ministry of Education in Kenya has embarked on the implementation of peer counselling in public secondary schools in order to curb the problem of substance abuse. Despite the implementation of peer counselling in public secondary schools, substance abuse among students persists in lmenti North District. This study therefore, sought to find out the influence of peer counselling in curbing substance abuse among students in public secondary schools in Imenti North District. An ex-post facto research design was employed. The study population comprised of all form 2 and 3 students in the 39 public secondary schools in Imenti North District with a total student population of 8951. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 4 public secondary schools that participated in the study. Three hundred and twenty eight (328) form 2 and 3 students were selected through simple random sampling from the 4 public secondary schools. One teacher counsellor from each sampled school was selected to participate in the study. A separate questionnaire for students and another for teacher counsellors was used to collect data. The instrument's validity was enhanced through a pilot study in two public secondary schools outside Imenti North District, while the reliability test was done through test¬retest method. The data obtained was coded and analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) computer program. Results were summarized using descriptive statistical tools such as frequencies, percentages and means. The results were presented using graphs, tables and pie charts. The study established that peer counselling has a greater influence on students' behavioural change regarding substance abuse and its reduction in secondary schools in Imenti North District. The study concluded that peer counsellors model good behaviour that influences other students towards making responsible decision about their behaviour in order to reduce substance abuse through peer counselling. Consequently, peer counselling has a significant contribution to curbing substance abuse in public secondary schools in Irnenti North District
The impact of dysfunctional family systems on performance ; a case of secondary school students in Imenti North District - Kenya
(KeMU, 2013-06) Mutai, Edith Makena
A dysfunctional family system is a family in which conflict, misbehavior, and often abuses impact negatively on the part of individual members and occur continually. When problems and circumstances such as parental alcoholism, mental illness, child abuse, or extreme parental rigidity and control interfere with family functioning, the effects can sometimes linger long after these children have grown up and left their problem families. Adults raised in dysfunctional families frequently report difficulties forming and maintaining intimate relationships, maintaining positive self-esteem, and trusting others, they fear a loss of control, and deny their feelings and reality. This has put into question the extent to which dysfunctional family systems affect performance of secondary school students, how these effects can be identified and how they can be dealt with. The study was guided by four research objectives which were concerned with the determination of the relationship between dysfunctional families and their effects on children's discipline, academic performance, personality and socialization. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The target population comprised of all principals teacher counselors and students, giving a total of 17,328 subjects. A sample of 132 subjects was purposefully and randomly selected from the target population. The researcher used a questionnaire and a document analysis guide to collect the data from the respondents. Reliability of the research instruments was estimated through use of split half reliability method. In this case the reliability coefficient was 0.74. Data was organized then analyzed with the help of SPSS version 17 computer software. Both quantative and qualitative methods were used in the analysis. The results were presented using frequency tables. After interpretation of the results it was concluded that dysfunctional families systems generally have a negative effect on students discipline, academic, performance, personality and socialization. It was therefore, recommended that student teacher counselors and principals should work together to assist the students in the alleviation of the negative effects of dysfunctionalism.
The role of counseling in addressing work stress among chiefs in Tigania East District, Meru county, Kenya.
(KeMU, 2013-06) Mukindia, Alexander Kiburi
Chiefs coordinate and implement government policies in their respective areas of jurisdiction. They maintain law and order, coordinate disaster management responses, act as intelligent agencies and coordinate conflict resolution and peace building activities for the government. As a result of this myriad of responsibility the chiefs are faced with the danger of getting work stress that if not well managed may affect their performance. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of counseling in addressing work stress among chiefs in Tigania East District, Kenya. The personal emotive behavioral theory, Conducive production model and person environment fit theory formed the theoretical framework in understanding the causes of work stress and the role of counseling as a suitable remedy. The population of the study was 72 chiefs and Assistant Chiefs working in Tigania East District. Since the population was small the entire population was used for the study. Structured questionnaires were used for data collection. Descriptive statistics were used as methods of analysis. The analyzed data was presented in percentages, means, frequency tables and graphs. The respondents strongly indicated that counseling can played a major role in addressing work stress among chiefs and assistants chiefs. Majority strongly believed that counseling had a major role in addressing work stress The study findings may be useful to the office of the president, ministry of state for provincial administration and internal security in developing policies and possible employee assistance programs (EAP) on the prevention or management of stress among chiefs. It is recommended that the government needs to employee and make available competent counselors for both preventive and curative interventions to chiefs and assistant chiefs. All legal and ethical issues were strictly observed and adhered to during the entire period of study.
Effects of drug abuse on secondary school students in Embakasi District, Nairobi county.
(KeMU, 2013-07) Wathuta, Anne Wambui
According to the World Drug Report, the use of illicit substances has increased throughout the world in recent years. The report further stated that a major world trend is the increasing availability of many kinds of substances to an ever widening socio-economic spectrum of consumers. For example, for most of Europe and Asia, opiates continued to be the main problem drugs, accounting for 62 percent of all treatment in 2003. Reports from a total of 95 countries indicated that drug seizures increased four-fold in 2003, and more than half of these were of cannabis. The overall objective of this study was to find out the impact of substance abuse on the academic performance of secondary school students in Embakasi district, Nairobi County. The proposed study could help the Ministry of Education (M.0.E.) to better understand the current situation and accordingly make changes to address the factors that contribute to substance abuse in secondary schools. The research design for this study was a descriptive survey. The target population for this study was Forms 3 and 4 students, deputy-head teachers, school counselors, class teachers and parents. Forms 3 and 4 students were selected because they have been in school for some time and are likely to be more familiar with the cases of drug abuse in schools and better placed to evaluate the impact of these substances on the academic performance of students. Only nine of the 28 secondary schools in Embakasi District were utilized for this study. The main research instruments that were used to collect data in a survey are questionnaires and interviews. Data was analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The empirical study showed that drug abuse is widespread among students, with majority of students saying they have abused drugs other than for medicinal purposes . The study concludes Drug abuse among students is common and spells danger not only to the youth who abuse the drugs but also to the well-being of the nation, because the youth represent the future of its people. The study recommended that any education programme aimed at addressing drug abuse among students should be holistic and address both the risk and protective factors. The aim should be to strengthen the protective factors where potential buffers include strong family bonding, school commitment, positive role models and a strong belief in one's own efficacy.
Factors influencing implementation of guidance and counseling in public primary schools in Kasarani District, Nairobi county.
(KeMU, 2014-02) Mukaba, Purity Karambu
The Kenyan government realized the importance of guidance and counseling in schools in early 1960s. Since then there has been a guidance and counseling unit in the Ministry of Education whose aim has been to encourage implementation of guidance and counseling in schools. Despite the nine months in service training given to the teachers in 2006, the expected results are not realized as there are still increased reported cases of drugs and substance use and abuse, delinquency, truancy, dropping out of school, sexual abuse and harassment and teenage pregnancies. The implementation of guidance and counseling is further worsened by inadequacy of the required resources such as books, furniture, charts and counseling room among many others. This is more so in public primary schools in Kasarani District where poor implementation of the guidance and counseling programs has led to increasing cases of indiscipline, high absenteeism and deteriorating academic performance. The purpose of this study was to establish the factors influencing implementation of guidance and counseling in public primary schools in Kasarani District, Nairobi County. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The target population comprised of teachers and students from the twenty two public primary schools in Kasarani District from which 50 teachers were purposefully selected and 50 students selected randomly. Data was collected by the use of semi structured questionnaires. The quantitative data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics while content analysis was used for the qualitative data. The study yielded a 85% response rate. The perceived indicators of implementation of guidance and counseling by the key resources teachers in public primary schools in Kasarani district were identified and assessed as the number of teachers in charge of guidance and counseling services is inadequate, time allocated for guidance and counseling was insufficient, fear by the pupils that the guidance and counseling teachers may not keep their sessions confidential. The study further found that the factors influencing implementation of guidance and counseling services in public primary schools in Kasarani District included inadequate funding and lack of transparency in handling the funding, a weak relationship among Key stakeholders in guidance and counseling programs, absence of coordination and systems support. So far, strategies adopted among these schools towards the effective implementation and sustenance of guidance and counseling programs can therefore be considered weak, owing to the lack of these key resources. The study recommends that the government through the relevant organs such as the ministry of education formulate binding policies that will see the adoption of guidance and counseling policies in public primary schools. Individual schools through the administration also need to take this reality into consideration and leverage the guidance and counseling programs and fully integrate the same into their systems in order to keep the young children in check and boost academic performance, discipline, morality, retention and career choice. The principals in the schools together with the school management should allocate more time and resources to the guidance and counselling programs to enhance their efficiency. This is more so in regard to the counseling venue and provision of key resources.
Investigating prevalence of workplace conflicts among primary school teachers; a case of Nyeri county, Central Kenya
(KeMU, 2014-05) Matu, Anna Wangeci
A school is an institution with learners, teachers, parents, and the support staff. The main objective of the teachers is to impart skills and knowledge to the learners. In the process of interaction among these groups, conflicts occur. Conflicts among teachers can have adverse effects on learners and the teachers as well. The purpose of this research was to investigate prevalence of workplace conflicts among teachers in Nyeri County. The main objective was to establish causes of conflicts among primary school teachers in Nyeri County. A qualitative research design, involving survey method of data collection was used. The sample consisted of 14 head teachers and 147 teachers out of a target population of 142 head teachers and 1472 teachers. Three education officers were also sampled from the eight districts. Self-administered questionnaires were administered to the teachers and head teachers while interviews were conducted with the education officers. A pilot study was done to find out whether the tools were effective in soliciting for the data required. During the pilot study, a reliability test was done using split-half and Cronbach Alpha to estimate the internal consistency of the instruments. A reliability coefficient of 0. 76 was obtained. The researcher took the questionnaires to the selected schools and waited for the head teachers and teachers to respond. The information was statistically analyzed using SPSS computer software. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics while qualitative data was analyzed using identified themes or categories among the data. From the analyzed data it was concluded that conflicts occur in all the schools that the respondents were drawn from. Personality differences, administration and resources were found to be among the causes of conflicts. The head teachers used different methods to resolve the conflicts that occurred in their schools. Consequently it was recommended that a well laid structure of resolving conflicts in primary schools be put in place.
Financial, Psychological and social challenges faced by caregivers of orphans in Kitui Central, Kitui county, Kenya.
(KeMU, 2014-06) Mwinzi, Jacinta M.
ABSTRACT Caring for orphans is an enormous task. Caregivers are rarely prepared to take extra burden of caring for children who are not their biological children after the death of their parents. They are faced with a myriad of challenges including psychological stress due to the notion that an extra burden has been added to them. Lack of adequate support from the community makes this task more challenging. This situation is not different in Kitui District. The purpose of this study was to determine financial, psychological and social challenges faced by caregivers of orphans in Kitui Central District, Kitui County, Kenya. The research questions were formulated in line with the research objectives. The study was guided by three theories which included crisis theory as advanced by Erich, the attachment theory by Bowlby and Maslow's hierarchy of needs theory. The research adopted ex-post facto research design. The target population was all orphan care givers in Kitui Central District. One hundred and six caregivers were purposively sampled. Three sets of questionnaires were used to collect data. The data was then analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences computer software. The analysis involved both quantitative and qualitative descriptive statistics. The study found out that despite the financial difficulties the family remains the strongest and most permanent unit of care for the orphans. Majority of the caregivers reported truancy as the most unruly behavior expressed by the orphans. Social capacity still remains as an essential ingredient in orphans care. Similarly majority of the care givers were old women. In conclusion it was found that psychosocial and economic challenges influenced caregivers' provision of services to orphans. Similarly it was concluded that although, majority caregivers faced serious psychological and social challenges; they were still willing to carry on with the care giving services to the orphans. It was recommended that the government and other stakeholders in the community be involved in addressing challenges, which orphan caregivers face. The result may be useful to both the government policy makers and the Non-governmental sectors, in assisting caregivers overcome the challenges of caring for orphans.
Effectiveness of guidance and counseling among secondary school students: A case of Kasarani District, Nairobi county, Kenya
(KeMU, 2014-06) Karani, Mary Wanjiru
There is an increased death rate in Kenya which affects the society at large. Bereaved students resume school when still in grief because grieving process takes a long time. The school is an important source of social support. High school students have growth issues, and are in a period of transition from childhood to adulthood with many challenges. These challenges can be compounded when they undergo loss and grief This study examined the effectiveness of guidance and counseling in grief and loss counseling among secondary school students in Kasarani District of Nairobi County. An accessible population of 42 teacher-counselors was targeted out of which a sample of 21 participated in the study. The target population was 7648 secondary school students out of which a sample of 189 students who had lost a significant person in their life participated in the study. Pertinent data was gathered using a structured questionnaire and interview schedule. The instruments were scrutinized by my two supervisors to judge on the items appropriateness of content and to determine whether the objectives of the study would be achieved. Reliability was determined by pilot testing of the instruments. Test¬-retest procedure was used and a reliability coefficient of 0.82 obtained. Questionnaires were administered by the teacher- counselors in the presence of the researcher and collected the same day after completion. Data was edited, coded and then subjected to analysis using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer software. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used in the analysis. Consequently, descriptive and inferential statistics were made use of Percentages and frequency graphs as well as charts were used to present the results. William Worden theory of counseling was used which views moaning as necessary and sees counseling as a facilitative process that allows the bereaved to move on with life without the deceased. The findings showed that although students sought grief and loss counseling and schools supported the grieved students, they perceived grief and loss counseling ineffective. Grief and loss training among the teacher-counselors was also inadequate. It was recommended that teacher¬-counselors should educate students about the process of grieving. The teacher-counselors should be given more training in grief and loss to make them more effective in helping bereaved students. Support centres for students should be maintained and ¬bereavement counseling should be given to students.
Assessment of the impact of boy-girl relationship on academic performance among public secondary school students in Imenti North sub county, Meru Kenya.
(KeMU, 2018-04) Chiamaka, Eze Joy
Boy-girl relationships are expressions of adolescents’ deep and strong emotional desires towards the opposite gender. Boy-girl relationships usually start when adolescents meet with the opposite gender and they develop attraction or feelings of likeness towards each other. Students are expected to concentrate and focus on their studies in order to succeed academically. Boy-girl relationships among adolescents have been suggested as one of the factors influencing students’ academic performance negatively. Poor academic performance has been associated with the emotional and cognitive impact of boy-girl relationships among secondary school students in Imenti North Sub-County Meru. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of boy-girl relationships among public secondary school students of Imenti North Sub-County, Meru, Kenya. The study was guided by the following objectives: to establish the prevalence of boy-girl relationships among secondary school students, to examine the emotional effect of boy-girl relationships on academic performance among secondary school students, to analyze the cognitive effect of boy-girl relationships on academic performance among secondary school students and to explore psycho-educational interventions implemented to mitigate negative impact of boy-girl relationships on students’ academic performance. The study anchored on the need to belong theory which unveils the motivation behind boy-girl relationships and how maintaining frequent and consistency in the relationship can result to emotional and cognitive issues among secondary school students; which in turn affect their academic performance negatively. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The target population for this study consisted of 72 public secondary schools; 144 teachers and 1,440 Form three students in North Imenti Sub-County. Random sampling and stratified sampling techniques was used to select 10% of the schools, students and teachers. Seven public schools from Sub-County schools, extra County schools and County schools were chosen to sample the 144 students and 14 teachers. Data was collected by means of self-administered questionnaires and interviews. A pre-test study was carried out on 7 secondary school students and 3 teachers in 2 schools within the neighboring Sub-County, Buuri to ensure the reliability/feasibility of the questionnaire. Validity was assured by careful choice of indicators in line with the objectives and consultation with the supervisors. Data collected were analyzed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS), organized and presented in charts and tables. A total of 98 students’ questionnaires were successfully completed as well as all the teachers’ questionnaire, hence a 70.9% return rate was achieved. The findings of the study revealed that boy-girl relationships were predominant and widely spread among adolescent students, the emotional and cognitive effect of boy-girl relationships had adverse effect on the students’ performance and teachers (amidst other psycho-educational interventions) played more significant role in mitigating negative impact of boy-girl relationships on students’ academic performance. Thus, guidance and counseling departments in secondary schools should take the high prevalence of students’ past and current engagement into account when designing programs. The policy makers in the health and education sector should design policy of providing students with information about skills and attitudes on interpersonal relationships. Secondary school teachers should occasionally examine and give attention to students’ level of concentrations in their respective classes. Parents, counselors, church leaders and teachers should maintain an approachable attitude for students to discuss their personal issues as it relates to boy-girl relationships. All these can aid to mitigate the negative impact of boy-girl relationships on academic performance among secondary school students.
Psychological effect of cervical dysplasia diagnosis among HIV positive women at the Dream Center in Lang'ata, Nairobi county
(KeMU, 2018-07) Magambo, Margaret Ndiah
Cervical dysplasia is the abnormal growth of pre-cancerous cells on the surface of the cervix associated with the human papilloma virus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus. The risk for cancer is lower for mild dysplasia. Cervical cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers that affect women and that leads to deaths worldwide. The ultimate purpose of the study was examining the psychological effects and make recommendations on some of the critical psychological issues that should be addressed at the Dream center, Lang'ata Nairobi County. The study was conducted through descriptive research design. The study population was HIV positive women diagnosed with cervical dysplasia at the Dream center, Lang'ata Nairobi County between the months of October 2013-September 2016. Target population was 50 HIV positive women diagnosed with cervical dysplasia in Dream center Lang'ata Nairobi County, out of200 women diagnosed with the same condition between the months of October 2013 to September 2016. The study used systematic random sampling technique to select 25% of the target population. The sample size of the study was 50 possible respondents, 10 clinicians and 10 caregivers were also targeted in the study. The researcher carried out a pilot study using a sample with similar characteristics as the sample for the study. This was done at the Dream center Lang'ata Nairobi with measures in place to ensure that those who participated in the pilot study were not included in the actual study. The results of the pilot study enabled the researcher to ascertain and enhance the validity and reliability of the research instruments. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The organized data was interpreted on account of concurrence to objectives using assistance of Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) computer packages and Microsoft Excel Data Analysis Tool Packs to communicate research findings. Based on demographic profile, older respondents (above 40 years) had greater percentage of satisfaction on counseling than the young respondents (1 % more). The research indicated 87% of the respondents said that there was no counseling before screening, 13 % of the respondents said that they were counseled. The clinicians and caregivers could not give foundational support services for HIV positive patients diagnosed with cervical dysplasia. The research indicated that among the fears expressed was the fear of death (51 %), fear to loose fertility (17%) fear of divorce (19%) and other fears as cost of treatment were 14%. Lack of family support, anxiety, stigma, lack of information was also other important psychological impact expressed. The researcher found out that there were slight variation on how respondents handled various situations as counseling based on various demographic profiles as religious background and level of education. Based on the limited literature currently available, treatment for cervical and vulvar dysplasia appears to have a negative impact on sexual health. Based on the information shared during focus group discussions, the researcher found that clinicians focused more on the physical needs of HIV Positive women diagnosed with cervical dysplasia. Information should be made available on cervical dysplasia to HIV positive women to ease impacts of cervical dysplasia diagnosis. Physicians and caregivers should be able to give the information in the best methods possible. Positive dysplasia result might culminate to bigger psychological problems as stigma, loss of spouse and lower quality of life. This calls for measures by government and social groups to ensure that persons with dysplasia have a quality life in the long run. There too should be stringent support services that are specific to dysplasia and the condition should not be generalized as it affects mainly a specific group of persons (women) and may not be understood by other groups who might stigmatize these. Relevant government ministry and departments as the department of culture, gender and social services should ensure this both at county and national level.