Browsing by Author "LYDIA KORIR KEMBOI"

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    SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE AND FAMILY COHESION AMONG USERS OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN UASIN-GISHU COUNTY, KENYA
    (THE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY OF EASTERN AFRICA, 2024-09) LYDIA KORIR KEMBOI
    This study examined social media usage and its relationship to family cohesion among residents of Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. It aimed to identify patterns of social media use, the factors influencing family cohesion, and possible family social work interventions to promote stronger family bonds. The research was grounded in Social Exchange Theory, Cultivation Theory, Uses and Gratifications Theory (UGT), and Family Systems Theory. A mixed-method approach was employed, with an explanatory sequential design, combining both quantitative and qualitative methods. A sample of 400 individuals aged 15 to 64, living in the county’s six sub-counties, was selected through random, cluster, and purposive sampling. Data were gathered using questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS software, while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis. The study found that while social media played a positive role in facilitating communication and information sharing within families, it also posed challenges, including contributing to family conflicts and reducing bonding time. Time spent on social media platforms and privacy settings emerged as critical factors influencing family cohesion. The study revealed that prolonged social media usage was associated with diminished family interaction, leading to weakened cohesion in some households. Based on these findings, the study identified key interventions to promote family cohesion, including setting boundaries on social media usage, encouraging more family-oriented activities, and educating families about the importance of healthy social media habits. The study underscores the need for balanced social media usage, as excessive engagement on these platforms can lead to family strain and reduced cohesion. The research concludes that while social media can support positive communication within families, its overuse may undermine family bonds. Recommendations include promoting digital literacy, fostering healthy and balanced social media habits, and encouraging open communication within families to mitigate conflicts. The reliability and validity of both qualitative and quantitative data collection instruments were rigorously tested and ensured.