Master of Arts in Counseling

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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.
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.
Assessment of the Effects of HIV Related Stigma on Self- Esteem of Pupils in Public Primary Schools in Kiambu County
(KeMU, 2023-09) Wambugu, Jennifer Wangari
With the increased cases of Human Immune Deficiency Virus related stigma, there is increased need to ensure People Living With Human Immune Deficiency Virus don’t face stigma which eventually lowers their self-esteem. Specifically, pupils living with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome have been victims of stigmatization and are often the most understood thus most affected by low self-esteem as a result of stigmatization. There is need for accurate evaluation of the health needs of the community specifically those living with Human Immune Deficiency Virus. This study sought to establish the effects of Human Immune Deficiency Virus related stigma on the self-esteem of pupils in Kiambu County. The study’s main objectives were to establish the effect of discrimination, denial of service, and isolation on pupils' self-esteem in Kiambu County. Besides, the study sought to establish strategies and interventions put in place and how they influence the self-esteem of pupils in Kiambu County facing Human Immune Deficiency Virus-related stigma. The study was supported by the psychosocial theory and the Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs theory. The study evaluated how discrimination, denial of service, isolation, and interventions in place affect the self-esteem of pupils in Kiambu county. The study used a quantitative research design specifically utilizing descriptive design to identify the relationship between the different variables. A descriptive research design was used since it easily describes various attributes, values, attitudes, and changes in behavior of the respondents. The demographic of interest were 2000 pupils in classes 7 and 8 from public primary schools in Kiambu County. The sample size was 333 students based on a random sampling approach with an assurance level of 95%, which corresponded to 16.65% of the overall population. Standardized questionnaires were used to collect data. The study ensured validity by conducting a pilot test involving 25 participants to assess questionnaire clarity, comprehensibility, and relevance. Reliability was established through a pilot study employing Cronbach's Alpha coefficient, a statistical method assessing internal consistency. The approach enhanced the accuracy and consistency of the research findings, thus ensuring robustness in the data collection process. To ensure the confidentiality of the collected data, each questionnaire was assigned a unique identification code, dissociated from any personal information. Besides, the responses were anonymized, and no identifying details were requested in the questionnaire. The completed questionnaires were collected in sealed envelopes to prevent unauthorized access to the information. The researcher used descriptive data analysis techniques which included means, frequencies, standard deviations and percentages. The researcher used SPSS to be able to come up with comprehensive data. The study established that there was a positive significant relationship between discrimination, denial of services and isolation supported by an overall mean of 2.52. The increase in the levels of discrimination, denial of services and isolation increased the levels of low self-esteem among pupils. Further, the study established intervention measures that can help to reduce the high rates of low self-esteem among pupils. The study recommended that the top management in government and education sector should device strategies and policies that address the psychological needs of children. Also, the research recommended that Education sector introduce a policy for organizations to have family support services and include the pupils affected or infected with Human Immune Deficiency Virus.
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.
Challenges to Drug and Substance Abuse Cessation Efforts among Students in Secondary Schools: A Case of Machakos Town, Machakos County, Kenya.
(KeMU, 2019-10) Makau, Beth James
The purpose of this study was to investigate into the challenges experienced in drug and substance abuse cessation efforts by students in secondary schools in Machakos County. The following were the four objectives of the study; to investigate individual challenges experienced by students in secondary schools in Machakos Town in their effort to stop abusing drugs, to establish family challenges experienced by students in secondary schools in Machakos Town in their efforts to stop abusing drugs, to establish school challenges experienced by students in secondary schools in Machakos Town in their efforts to stop abusing drugs, and to establish counseling interventions that can be used to help students in secondary schools in Machakos Town to stop abuse of drugs. Three theories were used; Ecological Systems theory, Planned behavior theory, and Trans- theoretical model. The study used descriptive study plan to gather data that related to individuals behavior, feelings and views. From the 27 schools within the town, 9 were purposively sampled. Each school provided a total of 12 respondents, 3 students from each form who were randomly selected from their respective forms. There were also 10 kiosk owners whom the researcher interviewed, one deputy principal, and 1 guidance and counseling teacher from each school which formed a total of 136respondents. The study used both questionnaires and interview guides to collect data. The questionnaires were administered to both students and teachers while the interviews were conducted with kiosk owners around the school compounds. The various methods of data collection ensured triangulation and richer data. Data analysis was carried out using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 20 utilizing descriptive procedures. The results were presented in frequency distribution, tables, and percentages. The findings revealed that 46.7% of both boys and girls in public and private secondary schools were aware that students abuse drugs. Majority 66.7% indicated that withdrawal syndromes were the individual challenges faced in the cessation efforts. 37.9% indicated that irresponsible parents were the major family challenge. 45.3% indicated that peer pressure was the major school challenge experienced in cessation efforts. 32.4% indicated that counseling by teachers was the commonly used method of helping students in their effort to quit drug and substance abuse. One of the major recommendations included having trained drug and abuse counselors in schools to be able to help the students who are involved in substance abuse.
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.
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.
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.
Effects of church ministry on family stability among pastors’ families in selected sub-counties in Nairobi County, Kenya
(KeMU, 2018-10) Maina, Jaccobed Wanjiku
The family is an important place for individual mental growth. A family affects the growth of every member, and plays an important role in the normal operation process of a social system. Clergy families, however, experience ministry related challenges with potential ramifications on their family stability. This study sought to address the effect of church ministry on family stability among clergy families in selected churches in Nairobi County, Kenya. The specific objectives were; to determine the extent to which the clergy‟s work as a preacher affects family stability, to establish the extent to which pastoral care work affects family stability, to determine the extent to which church administration work affects family stability in selected churches in Nairobi and to determine interventions that can be used to help clergy families.. The study was guided by the Structural Family Theory and Family Systems theory. Descriptive survey design was used to analyse data. Stratified sampling method was used. The sample population comprised of clergy and their family members engaged in church ministry with physical presence within Nairobi County. The study targeted 6 selected churches registered with the National Council of Churches of Kenya with a total of 32 local churches. A total of 166 respondents comprising of 64 clergy, 47 spouses of clergy and 55 children of clergy were included in the sample. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistical techniques. Hypotheses were tested using Spearman‟s rank correlation technique at p<.05 and regression analysis to establish the relationship among variables. The results showed that the relationship between preaching work and family stability was not statistically significant across all family members. However, it was found that there was a significant negative correlation between church administration work and clergy family stability from the viewpoint of the children. Further, a statistically significant negative relationship was obtained between pastoral care work and family stability across all family members. However, both pastoral care work and church administration work negatively affected the family functioning and stability of clergy families. It was concluded that only the clergy‟s work as a preacher had no effect on family stability. It was recommended that the church needs to find ways of mitigating negative effects of pastoral care work by professionalizing its human resource systems, compensation policies and procedures. Emphasis needs to be put on work-life balance programs targeting clergy and their families. Among options available to the church include professional counselling and debriefing sessions for clergy and their families, managing expectations from the church congregations and developing peer to peer mentoring programs. To help clergy families, the study recommended use of Multigenerational and Structural Family Therapies in enhancing clergy family stability.
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 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.
Factors Influencing Cohabitation among Young Adults in MCK Kaaga Circuit, Meru County, Kenya.
(KeMU, 2019-10) Murrira, Denis Muriungi
Cohabitation is on the upward trend globally, especially among young adults. Methodist Church in Kenya, Kaaga circuit, Meru, has recorded a decline in church weddings in recent years with cohabitation being the main alternative. The purpose of this study was to analyze factors influencing cohabitation among young adults in MCK Kaaga Circuit. Specifically, the study sought to establish the influence of financial ability, family of origin, peer pressure, pre-marital pregnancy and pre-marital counseling on cohabitation among young adults. The study adopted the descriptive survey design. The study target population was 780 participants where a sample of 251 was realized using stratified random sampling and simple random sampling. The sample comprised 235 young adults, 11 youth counselors and 5 church ministers. A questionnaire was used to collect data from the participants while an interview schedule was administered to church ministers and youth counselors. A pilot test of research instruments was conducted in MCK Kinoru Circuit, targeting 25 young adults, 2 church ministers and 2 youth counselors. The data was analyzed through SPSS and presented in percentages, frequency tables and figures. The study established a strong and positive relationship between financial background and cohabitation among young adults (r=0.747, p<0.01); family of origin had a moderate positive influence on cohabitation (r=0.548, p<0.01); peer pressure had a moderate strong positive influence (r= 0.634, p<0.01); premarital pregnancy had a moderate positive influence on cohabitation, and premarital counseling had a weak negative influence on cohabitation (r=-.19, p=0.03). The study established that lack of financial ability specially to solemnize a wedding was the major cause of cohabitation among the young adults. Further, family context influenced young adults to cohabit when they decide to form family unions; the more peers of young adults were cohabiting the higher the likelihood of young adults cohabiting and vice versa. Premarital pregnancy was a key contributor to cohabitation as the welfare of the child had to be secured, and the church’s pre-marital counseling program had little influence in controlling cohabitation. The study recommended a sliding and deciding psycho-education approach to counseling, engagement of young adults in income generating projects. Furthermore, need for MCK Kaaga Circuit to ensure church weddings are affordable to young adults by carrying out mass weddings and counseling programs should be revised to include contemporary issues that contribute to cohabiting among young adults. The findings of this study will be of critical importance to young Christian adults, church ministers, youth counselors, young adult’s development experts and the academic fraternity, particularly experts in counseling and marriage issues.
Factors Influencing Divorce: A Case of Mwiteria Circuit in Imenti North- Meru County, Kenya
(KeMU, 2019-09) Kirimi, Lydia Gacheri
Divorce is unexpected experience among married men and women that cut short their life dreams against the divine intended purpose for marriage and family as a unit. The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors influencing divorce among Christian couples in MCK Mwiteria Circuit. Specifically, the study sought to establish the influence of infidelity on divorce among couples in MCK Mwiteria Circuit, to evaluate the influence of domestic violence on divorce among couples in MCK Mwiteria Circuit, to assess the impact of socio-cultural factors that influence divorce among couples in MCK Mwiteria Circuit and to investigate the economic factors that influence divorce among married couples in MCK Mwiteria Circuit. The study was founded on Albert Bandura social cognitive theory and social cognitive theory. The study adopted a descriptive research design and targeted 320married men/women of all ages among Christian affiliations, 45separated/divorced men/women, 12Church elders and 2 Methodist Church Ministers in MCK Mwiteria Circuit. The data was collected using a questionnaire. The study established that, infidelity strongly contributed to divorce among couples. In addition, the study revealed that some respondents had experienced domestic violence. Also, the study observed that economic factors influenced divorce among couples as was confirmed by the divorced respondents. However, the study found that socio-cultural affairs did not influence divorce among couples as was the case of infidelity, domestic violence and economic factors. Moreover, the study revealed that divorce can be prevented or minimized through improved communication, financial transparency and accountability, as well as, avoiding sticking to the cultural beliefs and practices. The researcher recommends the need to create more enlightenment and awareness in order to enhance transparency and mutual fidelity among couples. In addition, there is need to advocate and sensitize couples on the effects and consequences of domestic violence in a family set up. In order to address economic issues, there is need for couples’ seminars with arrangement of the Church ministers and professional counsellors, through which couples can be taught about financial accountability and transparency, as well as, financial sustainability.
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.
Factors Influencing Marital Stability among Elderly Couples Within Westlands Sub-County, Nairobi County
(KeMU, 2019-09) Kiara, Consolata Kanyua
Globally marital unions are constantly facing myriads of challenges putting relationships in a crisis mode. The study was to explore factors influencing marital stability among elderly couples aged over 55 years in Westlands Sub-county of Nairobi. This study used the following study objectives; To explain the extent to which factors in the management of conflict influence marital stability among elderly couples in Westlands sub-county, Nairobi, Kenya, To describe the factors of quality communication that influence marital stability among elderly couples in Westland’s sub-county, Nairobi, Kenya, To identify factors which affect the management of finances in marital stability among elderly couples in Westlands sub-county of Nairobi, Kenya and to list strategic factors that could be used to strengthen marriages and maintain stability among elderly couples in Westlands sub-county, Nairobi, Kenya. Thirty purposively selected elderly respondents with required characteristics were sampled. Snowball sampling was used to select ten respondents with special skills for Focus Group Discussions (FGD), making a total of 40 respondents. The objectives of the study were to establish ways the elderly resolved conflicts, managed quality communication, handled finances as well as explored the strategies they used to strengthen their marriages. The study used qualitative, exploratory and descriptive research design. The research tools consisted of questionnaires and focus group discussions. The Focus group discussion yielded a summary of frequently recorded words, as well as quoted statements which the elderly envisioned as turning points in their marriages. The study found stable marriages would be achieved where there existed hope, love, trust, commitment, forgiveness, and resilience. It was also found that a stable marriage is something that people work at through conflict management, quality communication prudent financial control and get better at but is never completed. It was also found that continuous communication was fundamental for successful marriages. Couples need to be good friends in order to manage conflicts as they arise. The study recommends that couples wishing to enter marriage should be prepared in premarital sessions by qualified professionals and the elderly. Couples at the community and institutions should be sensitized about marriages and issues of violence and offered professional help.
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 influencing performance of guidance and counseling programmes in public secondary schools in Kwale County, Kenya
(KeMU, 2018-10) Mutua, Javan Mavyuva
Guidance and counseling services in secondary schools are meant to assist students to develop their academic, social and personal competencies in order to make realistic choices and relevant decisions in life, to reduce indiscipline and students unrest. This means that the success of guidance and counseling programme in a given school can lead to behavior change. It is in this realization that this study was carried out. The aim of the study was to examine the factors influencing performance of guidance and counseling programmes in public secondary schools in Kwale County, Kenya. This study was guided by the following objectives: To examine the influence of teacher counselors training on the performance of guidance and counseling programme in public secondary schools in Kwale County; To investigate the influence of availability of guidance and counseling facilities on the performance of guidance and counseling programme in public secondary schools in Kwale County; and To examine the extent to which students‟ attitude towards guidance and counseling services influence the performance of guidance and counseling programme in public secondary schools in Kwale County. The theories used were the Person Centered Theory (PCT) and the theory of planned behavior. This study adopted a descriptive survey design. The target population of this study was 7, 101 students in the upper classes and the 54 guidance and counseling teachers from these schools. 710 students‟ respondents who were randomly sampled through simple random sampling and, then a population census was done on the guidance and counselling teachers from the 54 schools which made a total of 764 sample population. Questionnaires and focused group discussions were the main instruments of data collection that were used. Data was presented using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings indicate that seventy percent of the respondents supported the idea that teachers‟ or counselors‟ training has a significant influence on the performance of the guidance and counseling programmes in public secondary schools in the area. The findings continued to indicate that ninety percent of the respondents supported the idea that guidance and counseling facilities significantly influence the guidance and counseling programmes in their schools. The study concluded that teacher counselors‟ training has a significant influence on the performance of G&C programmes in various schools in Kwale County. Schools have few numbers of trained teachers as guidance and counselor experts and some have not done any effort of supporting their teachers to enroll in guidance and counseling courses so as to enable them implement the programme effectively at various levels. Generally, the findings indicated that students‟ attitude is the most significant factor influencing the performance of guidance and counselling in schools followed by guidance and counselling facilities and finally teacher‟s/counselor‟s training. Based on the results the study recommended that schools need to liaise with the ministry of education and other stakeholders to hire experts/ counselors who are well trained to handle the issues surrounding the development of the youth in the 21st century. Also, schools should set a standalone guidance and counseling office that is fully equipped with guidance and counseling materials and furniture for better performance of guidance and counseling programmes in their schools. Finally, students‟ attitudes towards guidance and counseling need to be stimulated positively for better guidance and counseling results. The students should be sensitized on the importance of seeking for guidance and counseling services and how this can enable them perform better in life.
Factors Influencing Substance Abuse among Youth in Lamu County A Case of Faza Ward- East Sub County
(KeMU, 2019-10) Kupi, Sauda Kassim
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the factors influencing drug and substance abuse among youth in Lamu County. According to NACADA (2015), about 200,000,000 people worldwide abuse drugs. Despite NACADA’s and other groups’ interventions, drug abuse is on the increase; with over 30% of youth in Kenya abusing various types of drugs. In the first chapter of this paper, the researcher presents an introduction to the study and also a brief explanation of the problem that prompted the study. The specific objectives of the study was; to establish how literacy levels influence drug and substance abuse among the youth, to evaluate the influence of type of employment on drug and substance abuse among the youth, to establish the role of availability of drugs and substance in drug and substance abuse among the youth, and to evaluate the County strategies in place to counter drug abuse. The researcher used descriptive research design because it facilitated the research operation thereby making the research efficient and yielding maximum information with minimal expenditure of effort, time and money. The study targeted both male and female persons aged between 18 to 30 years. Purposive sampling was used to select the locations in which to carry out the study by selecting the worst hit areas. The data collection instrument used in this study was a questionnaire. The questionnaire contained both open and closed ended questions. It was self-administered where the respondents answered themselves. In situations where the respondents had difficulties, the researcher aided in administering the questionnaire. After seeking and obtaining permission and individual consent, the questionnaires was hand delivered to respondents. The questionnaires were then collected dully filled for analysis. The questionnaire tool also acted as a guide for the researcher in moderating focused group discussions with male and female youth study participants separately. After the questionnaires were administered, and FGDs conducted, the raw data collected was systematically organized so as to facilitate analysis. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in data analysis; data was analyzed using IBM SSPS software Version 20. Quantitative data was changed into numbers by counting the number of times a specific thing occurs in the course of observation and interviews and by assigning numbers/ratings to dimension. The study findings were that literacy levels, availability of drugs, counseling, and county level strategies had no significant effect on drug abuse. County level strategies also had a bearing on the relationship between drug abuse and the other factors. However, occupation had no link and significant relationship with substance abuse. The recommendations were that community based organizations, county governments, the national government, and other relevant stakeholders should reduce focus on other factors and devote attention and resources to county level strategies.
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.
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.