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Influence of Religious Cultural Strategies on Students’ Behaviour Modification in Public Mixed Day Secondary Schools in Nandi County.
(2025) Korir Richard Kimeli; Dr. Stephen Asatsa; Dr. Jennifer Munyua
The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of Cultural strategies of training discipline on students’ behaviour modification in Public mixed secondary schools in Nandi County, Kenya. This is in the light of concern that indiscipline cases are increasing in schools despite existence of Guidance and counselling programs. The specific objective was to determine the influence of religious cultural strategies of training discipline on students’ behaviour modification. Multicultural Theory guided the study. Sequential mixed research design was adopted. The target population was 74048 respondents comprising of students, teacher counsellors and Deputy Principals. Proportionate stratified, simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques was used. Quantitative data was collected from students using questionnaire and Interview guide collected qualitative data from Deputy Principals. A pilot study was conducted among 39 students, 2 teacher counsellors and Deputy Principals each to test validity and reliability of the research instruments. Quantitative data was analyzed by use of frequencies, percentages, mean scores and standard deviations. Inferential statistics was done to test hypotheses by using analysis of variance. From the findings there was a statistically significant mean difference between religious cultural strategies groups (F (2,375) = 109.105, p= .000) and students’ behaviour modification. There was a positive significant effect of religious cultural strategies and students’ behaviour modification. The study concluded that religious cultural strategies of training discipline had a significant influence on students’ behaviour modification in public mixed secondary schools in Nandi County. The study recommended that school administrators should clearly spell out the rules and regulations guiding the expected behaviour of students within the school environment. The study findings will benefit the Ministry of Education, principals, deputy principals, community elders and counsellors to monitor and improve on student behavour in schools.
Effect of Preventive Cultural Strategies on Students’ Behaviour Modification in Public Mixed Day Secondary Schools in Nandi County.
(2025) Korir Richard Kimeli; Dr. Stephen Asatsa; Dr. Jennifer Munyua
The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of preventive strategies of training discipline on students’ behaviour modification in Public mixed secondary schools in Nandi County, Kenya. The specific objective was to determine the influence of preventive cultural strategies of training discipline on students’ behaviour modification. Multicultural Theory guided the study. Sequential mixed research design was adopted. The target population was 74048 respondents comprising of students, teacher counsellors and Deputy Principals. Proportionate stratified, simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques was used. Quantitative data was collected from students using questionnaire and Interview guide collected qualitative data from Deputy Principals. A pilot study was conducted among 39 students, 2 teacher counsellors and Deputy Principals each to test validity and reliability of the research instruments. Quantitative data was analyzed by use of frequencies, percentages, mean scores and standard deviations. Inferential statistics was done to test hypotheses by using analysis of variance. From the findings, most of the students, developed self-control due to mentorship, superstitions in the society have made them learn to obey and don’t engage in irresponsible sex because of fear of punishment associated with it. There was a statistically significant mean difference between preventive cultural strategies (F (2,375) = 61.52, p = .000) and students’ behaviour modification. There was a positive significant effect of preventive cultural strategies and students’ behaviour modification. The study concluded that preventive cultural strategies of training discipline highly influenced students’ behaviour modification in public mixed secondary schools in Nandi County. The school administrators should clearly spell out the rules and regulations guiding the expected behaviour of students within the school environment. This will enable counsellors to apply an appropriate strategy to manage deviant behaviour. The study findings will benefit the Ministry of Education, principals, deputy principals, community elders and counsellors to monitor and improve on student behaviour in schools.
Regulating community well-being through traditional mourning rituals: Insights from the Luhya People of Kenya
(Evolution, Medicine, & Public Health, 2025-01) Stephen Asatsa; Sheina Lew-Levy; Stephen Ngaari Mbugua; Maria Ntaragwe; Wilkister Shanyisa; Elizabeth Gichimu; Jane Nambiri; Jonathan Omuchesi
Background and objectives: Rituals have been reported to serve as a vital mechanism for expressing grief and fostering communal support worldwide. Despite these benefits, use of rituals in Indigenous communities is threatened by missionization, globalization, and westernization. This study sought to examine the relevance of traditional mourning rituals in community morality and well-being. Anchored in cultural evolutionary theory, the study employed an ethnographic research design. Methodology: Data were collected from 45 community elders, 30 bereaved adults, 30 bereaved adolescents, and 8 religious leaders through focus group discussions and interviews. Results: The study established five mourning rituals practiced by the Luhya people, each potentially serving an evolutionary function for community survival and well-being. Our findings show that Luhya traditional mourning rituals play an important role in community well-being, though not all members may benefit equally from these effects. Conclusions and implications: The study established conflict over rituals with differing viewpoints from religious leaders, cultural leaders, and the western biomedical approach to mental well-being. Yet, the bereaved reported that both Luhya and religious rituals helped them process their grief. To address mental health issues fully, it is important to establish collaboration between western models, religious approaches, and cultural approaches. Lay Summary Rituals are important practices that help people express their grief and provide support within communities around the world yet in most indigenous communities across the world, yet these rituals are being replaced by western biomedical approaches. This study focused on the significance of traditional mourning rituals among the Luhya people of Kenya and how these practices contribute to community morality and well-being. The study interviewed community elders, bereaved adults and adolescents, and religious leaders. The findings revealed that traditional rituals are crucial for the community's health, although not all members experience the same benefits. There were differing opinions about the rituals from religious leaders, cultural leaders, and those who follow western medical approaches to mental health. Despite these conflicts, many bereaved individuals reported that both Luhya and religious rituals helped them cope with their grief. To effectively address mental health issues, the study suggests a need for collaboration between western mental health models, religious practices, and cultural traditions. This approach could create a more comprehensive support system for those experiencing loss.
The International Work Addiction Scale (IWAS): A screening tool for clinical and organizational applications validated in 85 cultures from six continents
(Journal of Behavioral Addictions, 2025-03-28) Stephen Asatsa
Background and aims: Despite the last decade’s significant development in the scientific study of work addiction/workaholism, this area of research is still facing a fundamental challenge, namely the need for a valid and reliable measurement tool that shows cross-cultural invariance and, as such, allows for worldwide studies on this phenomenon. Methods: An initial 16-item questionnaire, developed within an addiction framework, was administered alongside job stress, job satisfaction, and self-esteem measures in a total sample of 31,352 employees from six continents and 85 cultures (63.5% females, mean age of 39.24 years). Results: Based on theoretical premises and psychometric testing, the International Work Addiction Scale (IWAS) was developed as a short measure representing essential features of work addiction. The seven-item version (IWAS-7), covering all seven components of work addiction, showed partial scalar invariance across 81 cultures, while the five-item version (IWAS-5) showed it across all 85 cultures. Higher levels of work addiction on both versions were associated with higher job stress, lower job satisfaction, and lower self-esteem across cultures. The optimal cut-offs for the IWAS-7 (24 points) and IWAS-5 (18 points) were established with an overall accuracy of 96% for both versions. Discussion and conclusions: The IWAS is a valid, reliable, and short screening scale that can be used in different cultures and languages, providing comparative and generalizable results. The scale can be used globally in clinical and organizational settings, with the IWAS-5 being recommended for most practical and clinical situations. This is the first study to provide data supporting the hypothesis that work addiction is a universal phenomenon worldwide.
Effect of Preventive Cultural Strategies on Students’ Behaviour Modification in Public Mixed Day Secondary Schools in Nandi County
(East African Journal of Educational, Social Science, and Humanities Research, 2024) Korir Richard Kimeli; Prof. Jennifer Munyua
The study was to investigated the influence of preventive strategies of training discipline on students’ behaviour modification in Public mixed secondary schools in Nandi County, Kenya. The specific question was what is the influence of preventive cultural strategies of training dis- cipline on students’ behaviour modification? Multicultural theory guided the study. Sequential mixed research design was adopted. The target population was 74048 respondents comprising of students, teacher counsellors and deputy principals. Proportionate stratified, simple ran- dom sampling and purposive sampling techniques were used. Quantitative data was collected from students using questionnaire and Interview guide collected qualitative data from Deputy Principals. A pilot study was conducted among 39 students, 2 teacher counsellors and Deputy Principals each to test the validity and reliability of the research instruments. Quantitative data was analysed by use of frequencies, percentages, mean scores and standard deviations. Infer- ential statistics was done to test hypotheses by using analysis of variance. From the findings, most of the students developed self-control due to mentorship, superstitions in society have made them learn to obey and not engage in irresponsible sex because of the fear of punishment associated with it. There was a statistically significant mean difference between preventive cul- tural strategies (F (2,375) = 61.52, p = .000) and students’ behaviour modification. There was a positive significant effect of preventive cultural strategies and students’ behaviour modification. The study concluded that preventive cultural strategies of training discipline highly influenced students’ behaviour modification in public mixed secondary schools in Nandi County. The school administrators should clearly spell out the rules and regulations guiding the expected behaviour of students within the school environment. This will enable counsellors to apply an appropriate strategy to manage deviant behaviour. The study findings will benefit the Ministry of Education, principals, deputy principals, community elders and counsellors to monitor and improve student behaviour in schools.
THE CONCEPT OF HUMAN AUTHENTIC LIVING AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE: A PHILOSOPHICAL REFLECTION
(Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, 2022-02) Martinus Nangwasha; Njuguna Waitherero
This article aimed to explore the concept of the human authentic living. It stresses on the why acting authentically promotes personal well-being and overall fulfilment which then leads to stronger interpersonal relationships. The article was motivated by the growing nature of inauthentic life-styles that most people are living, especially in contemporary times. The inauthentic life style has affected people badly because it causes them to stay away from the truth and true image of themselves. The common definition of authenticity is to live one’s life according to one’s beliefs, goals and values. One has to identify his or her important values in life, commit to them and work according to them. Authenticity means that one is true to one’s principles and values despite the pressure one has to endure in life. When one is true to oneself, he or she has much trust on own judgements and decisions. When one trusts oneself and does what is right, one can realize full potential in life. Heideggerian phenomenology and Sartrean existentialism reveal that the role played by authenticity in prompting the adoption of an authentic attitude, liberates one. It gives one the freedom to break free of learnt behavior and rise to the highest self. Being authentic gives one the confidence to see oneself for who he or she truly is, and bask in one’s uniqueness. Consequently, the importance of authenticity for self and society is immense. This article established that authenticity is positively related to life satisfaction and physical well-being. Also, acting authentically promotes personal well-being and overall fulfilment, and leads to stronger interpersonal relationships. The point of departure is that the term “authenticity” refers to being real, genuine, or true. This research was carried out in Library based on philosophical literature. Interpretivism research methodology was employed. Interpretivism is a branch of epistemology that is focused on the assessment of the differences between human as social factors
Tea Drinking Attitude and Tea Addiction Symptoms among Kenyans
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2022-05) Joyzy Pius Egunjobi, Ph.D., Dr.AD; Stephen Asatsa, Ph.D
Kenyans are known to consume lots of tea. This study investigated Kenyans’ tea drinking attitude and the possible traces of tea addiction. A correlation design was employed by using an online questionnaire to obtain information from 335 respondents who participated through voluntary sampling. The data were analyzed using descriptive inferential statistics. It was found that majority of Kenyans (95.3%) are tea drinkers with about 76.4% moderately consuming 1 to 3 cups of tea daily in the morning hours. There was no gender disparity in tea consumption. Addiction symptoms were experienced by 41% of Kenyan tea drinkers who experienced withdrawal symptoms such headache, tiredness, and disorientation, 49.1% craving for tea, 16.5% unable to stop drinking tea, and 36.9% feel stimulated by drinking tea. There was a significant positive correlation between the number of teacups consumed per day and addiction symptoms at Pearson correlation coefficient r (335) = .355, p < .001. It is recommended that while tea drinking is legal, those who experience loss of control over tea drinking and withdrawal symptoms should seek professional help.
Social Networking Sites and Their Influence on the Self Esteem of Adolescents in Embu County, Kenya
(Journal of Educational Policy and Entrepreneurial Research (JEPER), 2015-01) Virginia W. Nyagah; Dr. Asatsa Stephen; Dr. Jonathan Muema Mwania
As technology improves and advances, social networking sites have an even bigger impact on society and human relationships, both positive and negative. Social networking sites have influence on teenagers in the way they develop socially. The way teenagers are connected to these global SNSs is both a frightening prospect for parents and educators and an intriguing area for social science research. Further there is no comprehensive knowledge of the activities adolescents do on these sites as well as how they impact their social life. This study therefore sought to specifically investigate the influence of social networking sites on the self-esteem of adolescents in secondary schools in Embu County Kenya. The researcher adopted a descriptive survey design. The target population of the respondents for this research was secondary school students and teachers in Embu County. Random sampling technique was used to select five boarding schools for the study sample. From each school, fifteen students and three teachers was selected for each unit of analysis to make a total sample of one fifty students and 15 teachers selected from the target population. The data collection instruments designed for the researches were questionnaires, Rosenberg self-esteem scale, and interview schedules. The questionnaires and Rosenberg self-esteem scale was designed for the students while interview guides were for teachers. Data collected was analyzed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS). The study concluded that almost all the students use social network sites, therefore that social networking is very common among students who are in secondary schools. Facebook topped the list of the most common social site used by secondary schools students. The study further concludes that various students have different motivation for visiting the social networking sites. The study further concluded that social networking influence the self-esteem and psychological wellbeing of secondary school student. The study recommends that secondary schools students should be given guidance and counseling on how to positively utilize the social networking sites to their advantage and not to have a negative impact on their self-esteem.
Relationship between Family Cohesion and Teenage Sexual Behavior in Public Secondary Schools in Kajiado County, Kenya
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2021-10) Juliana Anyango Nyaguti; Stephen Asatsa (PhD); Josephine Muthami (PhD)
This research aimed at examining the relationship between family functioning and teenagers' sexual behavioral patterns amongst students in public secondary schools in Kajiado West sub-county, Kajiado County, Kenya. The research used survey design with a target population of 6085 students from public secondary schools. Based on Yamane's formula, the sample size of 375 students was selected by simple random sampling to participate in the study. Data were collected from this sample using standardized questionnaires; the Family Assessment Device (FAD) and the Adolescent Clinical Sexual Behavior Inventory (ACSBI-S). Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Independent t-Test and Correlation analysis. The findings indicated that there was statistically significant positive correlation between family cohesion and teenagers’ sexual behavior. Family cohesion had a positive correlation with sexual knowledge at r=.200; p-value= .000. Therefore an increase in family cohesion has a corresponding positive influence on the student sexual knowledge. Family cohesion on the other hand had a positive and significant correlation with sexual interests (r=0.135; p= 0.11). The findings imply that family cohesion could be used in regulating some of the sexual behavior domains of teenagers.
Relationship between Initial Trauma Processing Strategies and Posttraumatic Growth among Survivors of Garissa University Terrorist Attack, Kenya
(The International Journal of Indian Psychology, 2018-09) Asatsa Stephen; Dr. Sabina Mutisya; Dr. Bethwell Owuor
The study investigated the predictive relationship between initial trauma processing strategies and posttraumatic growth among Garissa University terrorist attack survivors. The study was anchored on the organismic valuing theory after adversity, and adopted the correlation research design. A total sample of 200 participants was selected using simple random sampling technique. Quantitative data were collected using a standardized questionnaire, the21 item Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI) and Initial Trauma Processing Scale (ITRS). Data were analyzed using univariate analysis, Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis. The study found positive significant relationship between initial trauma processing strategies and posttraumatic growth among the survivors of Garissa University terrorist attack (R2=0.121, F=6.474, P≤0.05). The study further found that intrusion response and arousal response strategies were significantly and positively related to all the 6 posttraumatic growth domains: relating to others, personal strength, spiritual change, appreciation of life, new possibilities and overall posttraumatic growth. Cognitive alteration strategy was significant and positively related to 2 the posttraumatic growth domains: appreciation of life and total posttraumatic growth. Avoidance response strategy was not related to any of the posttraumatic growth domains. These findings may be relevant in designing future interventions for trauma survivors that are growth focused as complementary approaches to the existing crisis-focused counseling.
Relationship between Attachment Styles and Delinquent Behaviour among Adolescents in Foster Care Centers in Nairobi Kenya
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2022-09) Nyambega Lilian Nyaboke; Stephen Asatsa, PhD; Peter Koros, PhD
The purpose of this study was to examine attachment styles and delinquent behaviours of children brought up in foster care centers in Njiru Ward, Kasarani Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya. The study was guided by the following research questions: What are the attachment styles and delinquent behavior patterns among foster children in Njiru Ward? What is the relationship between attachment styles and delinquency among foster children in Njiru Ward, Kasarani Sub-County? This study was informed by the Attachment Theory, Sub-culture and differential opportunity theories. A descriptive cross-sectional survey research design was used in this study. The target population included 19 foster care centers in Njiru Ward, with a total population of 1,117 and a sample of 336 (318 children, caretakers, and 6 directors) was selected for the study. Proportionate random sampling technique was used to select the children whereas purposive sampling was used for selecting the caretakers and directors in the foster care centers. The data was collected using questionnaires. Quantitative and qualitative approaches of analysis were used in the study. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in analysing quantitative data. The study established that there was a statistical significant relationship between attachment styles and delinquent behaviour among children in foster homes in Njiru Ward. The study recommends assessment of attachment styles in children with delinquent problems to aid in understanding and establishing holistic correctional measures.
Emotional Intelligence and Adjustment to Community Living Among Consecrated Women Religious in Karen, Nairobi, Kenya
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2021-07) Lucia Mwikali. K.; Mutuku, Stephen Asatsa (PhD); Josephine Adibo (PhD)
The Congregation for the Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic life (CICLSAL) views the issue of Consecrated Women abandoning religious life after initial stages of formation as an emotional crisis from remote disappointments caused by an inauthentic religious community living. Failure to adjust is experienced to cause anxiety related feelings among other mental health related challenges. The study used sequential explanatory mixed research design. The study equally used census to collect data from all the 138 participants of various programs in AOSK-Chem Chemi ya Uzima Institute as per 2020 enrollment. The study was guided by cognitive behavior theory by Aaron Beck, (1960), complemented by Emotional Intelligence theory by Daniel Goleman, (1995). A Modified Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (MEIQ) based on Daniel Goleman’s Emotional intelligence, as modified by Suzanne Farmer et al., (c.2013) was used to measure the level of Emotional Intelligence. Adjustment to community living was measured using modified sub-scales; Emotional Maturity, Satisfaction with life, and Self-Efficacy Scales. Data were analyzed using correlation and regression analysis in order to establish the extent to which each of the variables contributed to adjustment in community living. The findings reveal the overall Emotional Intelligence to have had a strong significant positive correlation with the overall adjustment to community living among Consecrated Women Religious. The finding implies that an increase in emotional intelligence would lead to a corresponding increase in adjustment to community living. Emotional Maturity was found to be a significant function of Self-awareness and self-management while Life satisfaction was also found to have a significant relationship with social-awareness. Linear regression findings indicate significant weak positive relationship between adjustment to community living with social awareness. This reveals that Consecrated Women Religious need to improve their relational domain to enjoy smooth adjustment to community living.
Predictors of Emotional Intelligence among Academic Staff in Selected Universities in Nairobi County, Kenya
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2021-08) Maria Ntarangwe; Stephen Asatsa (PhD); Elijah Macharia Ndung’u (PhD)
The academic staff in the university is a vital component in enhancement of academic affairs in any university. Due to the unending changes and dynamics that increase pressure and work related stress that academic staffs are subjected to, they are required to develop high levels of adaptability in their careers to enhance creativity so that they remain relevant. The study was based on Emotional intelligence theory and Career construction theory. A descriptive survey research design was used for this study. The target population was 403 academic staffs from selected universities in Nairobi County, Kenya. The total sample size was 201 respondents selected using two stage cluster sampling. Data was collected using Emotional Intelligence Scale EI (PcSc) scale developed by Mehta & Singh (2013). To establish internal consistency of the instrument, reliability was determined and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was 0.824. Descriptive statistics were applied to analyze quantitative data using SPSS. The study had several findings: High means in indicators of emotional intelligence were recorded where the highest score was in self- awareness (Mean = 4.13 ± .53). This was followed by self- motivation (Mean = 3.85 ± .53), social skill was rated the third aspect of emotional intelligence (Mean = 3.83 ± .43) and the lowest was emotional regulation (Mean = 3.68 ± .55). The findings also indicated that there were differences in the mean score of Emotional intelligence across age, gender, education level, type of university and teaching experience. However the analysis of variance showed no significant differences in emotional intelligence in terms of age and gender. Moreover, only the mean of social skills had a significant difference in terms of level of education, experience and type of university. The major recommendation therefore given by the research was enhancement of self- awareness, self- motivation, emotional regulation and social skills strategies both by individuals and various organizations in order to improve job outcomes. This would be through trainings, guidance and counselling and team building. The researcher anticipated that the results from the study will facilitate the formation of an academic staff that are holistically intelligent.
POSTTRAUMATIC GROWTH AND ITS PSYCHOSOCIAL FACILITATORS IN BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS IN NAIROBI
(International Journal of Innovative Research and Knowledge, 2022-09) MARGARET W. NJOROGE, Ph.D; MARY MUKAMI NJOROGE, Ph.D; DR. STEPHEN ASATSA
This study focuses on the dualism of the trauma surrounding a breast cancer diagnosis. The researchers explore the possibility that beyond psychological distress, survivors of breast cancer achieve growth in the five domains of change as described by Tedeschi and Calhoun; changes in relationships with others, increased personal strength, the realization of new possibilities, appreciation of life, and spiritual changes, (2004). By employing the posttraumatic growth inventory, the researchers were able to assess whether growth was achieved across each of the domains. Interviews and discussions offered personal statements that describe the changes, which as theorized by Tedeschi and Calhoun are “deeply personal” (2004). The findings from breast cancer survivors in Nairobi collaborate the theories and findings of many researchers as indicated in the literature review, that trauma can result in personal growth and development. Further, the researchers conclude and post recommendations on the findings that posttraumatic growth can be fostered by the psychosocial factors of optimism, social support, and redefining self.
Counseling as a Predictor of Posttraumatic Growth among the Garissa University Terrorist Attack Survivors.
(African Journal of Clinical Psychology, 2018-08) Asatsa Stephen, Ph.D; Sr. Sabina Mutisya, Ph.D; Bethwell Owuor, Ph.D
The study investigated the predictive relationship between counseling and posttraumatic growth among Garissa University terrorist attack survivors. The study was anchored on the organismic valuing theory after adversity, and it adopted the explanatory sequential mixed method research design. The study took a two-phase model starting with quantitative data collection and analysis followed by qualitative data collection and analysis. A total sample of 210 participants was selected using simple random sampling and extreme case sampling techniques. Quantitative data were collected using a standardized questionnaire; the 21-item Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI). Qualitative data were collected using interview guides. Quantitative data were analyzed using univariate analysis multiple regression analysis. Qualitative data were analyzed using themes and narratives from participants. The study found positive significant relationship between the number of counseling sessions attended and posttraumatic growth among the survivors of Garissa University terrorist attack. The study further found that participants who attended between 5 and 10 counseling sessions after the attack reported the highest posttraumatic growth while those who attended critical incident debriefing only reported the lowest growth. The participants who did not attend any form of counseling reported higher posttraumatic growth compared to those who attended critical incident debriefing only. These findings may be relevant in designing future interventions for trauma survivors that are growth focused as complementary approaches to the existing crisis-focused counseling. The findings further raised curiosity on the effectiveness of critical incident debriefing as a trauma intervention strategy which warrants further research on the construct.
The Attitudes of Postgraduate Counseling Students to Mandatory Personal Therapy in Selected Universities in Nairobi County, Kenya
(ResearchGate, 2021-10) Joyzy Pius Egunjobi, Ph.D; Dr.AD; Stephen Asatsa, Ph.D; Jacinta M. Adhiambo, Ph.D
Personal Therapy is an important aspect of most counselors’ training worldwide. Being made mandatory can generate negative attitudes among postgraduate counseling students. This study thus investigated the attitudes of postgraduate counseling students to mandatory personal therapy in selected universities in Nairobi County, Kenya. A mixed methods concurrent design was adopted in the collection of both quantitative and qualitative data using online questionnaire and interview guides respectively. The target population was all 635 postgraduate (Masters and Doctorate) clinical psychology and counseling psychology students from four universities and university constituent colleges in Nairobi County, Kenya. The sample size was 255 consisting of 245 postgraduate students of clinical and counseling psychology, 5 counselor educators, and 5 professional counselors. Quantitative data was analyzed descriptively using frequencies and percentages while qualitative data was analyzed using content and thematic analysis. Findings of the study showed that majority (90%) of postgraduate counseling students had a positive attitude towards mandatory personal therapy; there was initial negative attitude of reluctance and resistance by 52% of the postgraduate counseling students; the postgraduate counseling students owe their change of negative attitudes to psychoeducation from their lecturers and therapists as well as therapeutic alliance formed with their therapists. It is, however, worrisome to find some postgraduate counseling students engage in unethical practice of disingenuousness such as obtaining a fake letter of personal therapy. It is more worrisome to find some professional therapists cooperating in such unethical practice. This needs to be critically and ethically addressed by the counseling training universities.
Relationship between Parenting Styles and Academic Performance of Secondary School Students in Public and Private Schools in Lamu County, Kenya
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2022-03) Pauline Mumina; Stephen Asatsa, PhD; Carolyne L.A Onyango
This study aimed at investigating the relationship between parenting styles and academic performance of secondary school students in public and private schools in Lamu County, Kenya. The study employed an embedded mixed-method study design by combining correlational survey and phenomenological research designs. The study was informed by Vygotsky’s theory of cognitive development. The target population was 648 Form two students and 25 headteachers. A sample of 247 students was selected using simple random sampling and 8 head teachers were selected through convenience sampling. The study used questionnaires, interview schedule, and document analyses to collect data. Quantitative data were analyzed using Pearson’s product-moment correlation analysis while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that there is a non– significant weak negative relationship between authoritarian parenting style, authorititatve parenting style and academic performance of secondary school students. The study further established a negative significant relationship between permissive and uninvolved parenting styles and academic performance. The study recommended that Schools should organize forums for parents to enlighten them on parenting to address the gap existing in parenting. Such forums will enable parents to be warm, responsive, present, supportive and responsible to their children and in this process, embrace authoritative parenting which will enhance their children’s academic performance.
An Evaluation of the Crisis Counseling Offered to Garissa University Terrorist Attack Survivors, Kenya
(International Journal of Humanities Social Sciences and Education (IJHSSE), 2018-11) Asatsa Stephen; Rosemary Obiagaeri Ekechukwu
The study sought to investigate the subjective evaluation of crisis counseling that was offered to the survivors of Garissa University terrorist attack. The study was anchored on the organismic valuing theory after adversity, and adopted the phenomenological qualitative research design. A total sample of 20 participants was selected using extreme case sampling technique. Participants were screened using Posttraumatic Growth Inventory and those who scored the highest were considered for inclusion in the study. Data were collected using interview guides and analyzed using descriptive statistics, themes and narratives from participants. The study found that crisis counseling to a large extent helped participants accept the changes resulting from the terror attack, deal with denial, improve social skills, reinvest in self and process emotions. The results further showed that the crisis counseling offered to the Garissa University terrorist attack survivors had various shortcomings including not addressing family members of survivors, coping strategies and spiritual aspects arising from the attack. The crisis counseling also ignored screening, evaluation, other losses and follow up. These findings may be relevant in designing and enhancing crisis interventions for trauma survivors.
Adolescents' Social Networking and Self-Concept in Public Mixed Day Secondary Schools in Kajiado North Sub-County, Kenya
(International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 2021-07) Kwara Rainer Abadali; Stephen Asatsa (PhD); Maria Ntaragwe
Self-concept among adolescents is dynamic because of the struggle to find true identity while maintaining social acceptability. Social media may be seen as a social laboratory providing freedom to experiment with different presentations of self. The study examined the relationship between selected social networking sites (WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram) and the adolescents’ self-concept in public mixed day secondary schools in Kajiado County, Kajiado North Sub-county Kenya. An embedded mixed methods research design was employed to enable the researcher establish the relationship between the selected Social Networking Sites and self-concept among adolescents. Simple random sampling was employed to the selected 4 schools for this study. Probability sampling technique was used to select a sample of 265 respondents from the 4 selected secondary schools as sample size for the study. Data was collected using questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings indicated that Facebook was the most preferred social media site among the adolescents. The self-concept level among the adolescents was at a moderate level indicating that the adolescents are aware of their self. The study found a negative weak correlation between WhatsApp and self-concept among adolescent; a negative weak correlation between Facebook and self-concept among adolescents and a negative weak correlation between Instagram and self-concept among adolescents. Self-concept among the selected respondents was not significantly affected by the selected social media applications. The study recommends harnessing of social media platforms as a socializing tool among adolescents since no significant correlation was found between social media and self-concept of adolescents despite the existing ban of use of mobile phones among this population in Kenya.
Mental health policy and system preparedness to respond to COVID-19 and other health emergencies: a case study of four African countries
(South African Journal of Psychology, 2021-05) Tholene Sodi; Mahlatse Modipane; Kwaku Oppong Asante; Emmanuel Nii-Boye Quarshie; Dr. Stephen Asatsa; Julia Mutambara; Sibusiso Khombo
As a result of a long colonial history and subsequent developmental and economic challenges, many African countries have struggled to put in place adequate policies, systems, and associated infrastructures to address the health and social needs of their citizens. With the COVID-19 pandemic threatening human lives and livelihoods, concerns are raised about the preparedness and readiness of health policies and systems in African countries to deal with these kinds of health calamities. More particularly, questions can be asked about the preparedness or even existence of mental health policies and associated systems to help individuals and communities in Africa to deal with the consequences of COVID-19 and other health emergencies. In this article, we analyse the existing mental health policies of four African countries paying attention to the capacity of these legislative provisions to enable psychology professionals to deal with psychosocial problems brought about by COVID-19. We use Walt and Gilson’s Policy Triangle Framework to frame our analysis of the existing mental health policies. In line with this conceptual framework, we review the role played by the different factors in shaping and influencing these mental health policies. We further explore the challenges and opportunities associated with existing legislation and mental health policies. We also reflect on the reports obtained from each of the four countries about the role that psychologists are playing to deal with the associated psychosocial problems. Based on our policy analysis and country reports, we highlight strengths and gaps in these policies and give recommendations on how mental health policies in these countries can be strengthened to respond to COVID-19 and future health emergencies.

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