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Assessing Factors Influencing Open Communication between Parents and Early Adolescents: A Case Study at The Presbyterian Church of East Africa-Evergreen Parish, Kiambu County, Kenya.
No full textMASTER OF ARTS in Counseling PsychologyThis study examined factors influencing open communication between parents and early adolescents (ages 12–15) at PCEA Evergreen Parish in Kiambu County, Kenya. The primary objectives included to identify factors influencing open communication between parents and early adolescents at PCEA Evergreen Parish, Kiambu County; to examine how communication patterns relate to adolescents' risk-taking behaviors between parents and early adolescents at PCEA Evergreen Parish, Kiambu County; to assess the impact of socioeconomic factors on parent-adolescent communication within the church between parents and early adolescents at PCEA Evergreen Parish, Kiambu County. Three frameworks were used to employ the theoretical basis. Attachment theory posited that open communication is founded on a secure emotional attachment between the parent and the child. The family systems theory considered communication as an integral part of the family, encompassing family roles and interdependence, implying that every family member influences the entire system. Social learning theory emphasized the modeling, observation, and reinforcement of communication behaviors within the family context. The research design involved a mixed-methods and qualitative approach with a few quantitative components. The data was collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews involving purposive sampling of 12 biological parents and 12 adolescents in the parish. This pair helped to identify trends that were easily measured, as well as to detect insights into the dynamics of communication. This study explored factors affecting open communication between parents and early adolescents (12–15) at PCEA Evergreen Parish, Kiambu County, Kenya. Using a mixed-methods design guided by Attachment, Family Systems, and Social Learning theories, 12 parents and 12 adolescents completed questionnaires and interviews. Results showed 91.7% valued open communication highly. Adolescents were most comfortable discussing school (n=22) and least comfortable with substance use (n=9). Findings underscore the need for parent-focused and church-based programs to strengthen trust and healthy parent-adolescent relationships.Daystar Universit
Inventory Management Systems and Firm Performance: A Case of Krones Life Cycle Service Centre East Africa
No full textJournal ArticleThis study examined the effect of inventory management systems (IMS) and firm performance with a case of Krones Life Cycle Service Centre East Africa, addressing a pressing need for empirical evidence on IMS adoption and its outcomes within the East African industrial context. The main purpose was to evaluate how the introduction and operation of IMS influenced operational efficiency and overall organizational performance at Krones LCS Centre. The research was guided by three objectives: identifying the inventory management systems adopted; determining their influence on the firm's performance; and exploring the specific benefits and shortcomings resulting from their implementation. The research was grounded in a multifaceted theoretical framework that integrated the Resource-Based View (RBV), Systems Theory,
and the Theory of Constraints. These theories collectively provided a robust foundation for analyzing how internal capabilities, system integration, and the identification and resolution of operational bottlenecks could drive improved firm outcomes. The RBV framed IMS as a source of sustained competitive advantage, while Systems Theory highlighted the interconnected nature of inventory processes, and the Theory of Constraints underscored the importance of addressing limiting factors within the inventory system. A descriptive survey research design was employed, targeting a population of 120 employees at Krones LCS Centre. The sample size was determined to be 60, selected using stratified random sampling to ensure representation across managerial, technical, and support roles. Data collection instruments comprised structured questionnaires and key informant interviews, supplemented by document analysis. Pretesting of research instruments was carried out to refine clarity and appropriateness. Instrument validity was established through expert review and triangulation, while reliability was confirmed with a Cronbach's alpha score of 0.87. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and SPSS software, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The study achieved a response rate of 91%, ensuring the reliability and integrity of the data collected. Key findings showed that 82.6% of respondents recognized the use of perpetual IMS, with inventory records continuously updated, and 91.3% confirmed that periodic physical inventory checks were a standard practice. The adoption of just-in-time inventory principles was acknowledged by 65.2% of participants, indicating a shift towards demand-driven stock management. Statistically, 76.1% of respondents reported reduced inventory costs following IMS adoption, while 86.9% noted improvements in customer service efficiency. Additionally, 97.8% indicated that IMS had strengthened supplier relationships. However, 67.4% of respondents identified system complexity and cost as notable challenges, and 78.2% experienced occasional operational disruptions due to system failures. Despite these obstacles, 87% of participants disagreed with the notion that IMS diminished managerial control over inventory. In conclusion, the study found that the adoption of integrated, well-managed IMS had a significant positive effect on the operational and financial performance of Krones Life Cycle Service Centre East Africa. Recommendations included ongoing staff training, continuous system upgrades, and the development of risk mitigation strategies to handle potential system failures. Suggestions for further research involved comparative studies across similar organizations in East Africa. Chapter Five
synthesized these findings, reinforcing the strategic importance of tailoring IMS to organizational context for sustained competitiveness and growth
Impact of Parenting Styles on the Self-Esteem of Adolescents in Selected Public High Schools in Dagoretti North Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya
No full textMasters in Clinical PsychologyAdolescents in public high schools across Kenya experience varying levels of self-esteem, often shaped by the different parenting styles employed by their caregivers, which in turn influence their academic performance, social interactions, and overall well-being. This study sought to assess the impact of parenting styles on the self-esteem of adolescents in selected public high schools in Dagoretti North Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya. The objectives were threefold: to investigate the types of parenting styles among parents of adolescents, to explore the levels of self-esteem among adolescents, and to evaluate the relationship between parenting styles and adolescent self-esteem in the selected schools. The study was guided by Baumrind's theory of parenting styles and Rosenberg’s self-esteem theory. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interview guides. A total of 354 adolescents aged 13 to 19 years were selected through purposive sampling, representing diverse socioeconomic backgrounds in Nairobi. The Parental Authority Questionnaire (PAQ) and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) were employed to gather information, and the data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23 to examine the direction and strength of the relationship between parenting styles and self-esteem. The findings revealed that parenting styles significantly influence the self-esteem levels of adolescents in the selected schools. This was evidenced by a strong positive correlation coefficient of 0.769, indicating that parenting approaches play a substantial role in shaping adolescents’ self-perceptions. The study further highlighted that authoritative, authoritarian, permissive, and neglectful parenting styles each have distinct impacts on adolescent behavior, confidence, and emotional well-being. These results offer practical insights for parents, educators, and policymakers on effective parenting strategies that foster healthy self-esteem and holistic development among teenagers. Additionally, the study recommends therapeutic interventions, community initiatives, and school-based programs, such as parenting classes and mental health support, to address self-esteem challenges among adolescents and promote positive psychological outcomes across Nairobi’s youth population.Daystar Universit
Influence of Digital Media on News Production: A Case of Royal Media Services
No full textMASTER OF ARTS in CommunicationThe emergence of digital media has transformed how journalists globally produce news. Traditional media outlets are under constant pressure to adapt to digital media and Kenyan newsrooms are also in a similar predicament. This study focused on Royal Media Services, examining how digital media is influencing news production at Royal Media Services, Kenya, as well as the moderating effect of technology adoption on the relationship between digital media and news production at Royal Media Services, Kenya. The Diffusion of Innovation theory and the agenda-setting theory support the study. This study utilized the mixed research approach and adopted the convergent parallel research design. The target population was 250 Royal Media Services broadcast and digital journalists. The sample size for this study was 152, determined using the Krejcie and Morgan determination formula. The study used stratified random sampling for digital and broadcast journalists and purposive sampling to select the key informants who included managing editors, the editorial director and digital managers at Royal Media Services. Data was collected using questionnaires for digital and broadcast journalists and interview schedules for key informants. Data collected was analyzed using SPSS Version 27, with descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviation as well as inferential statistics such as Pearson correlation and regressions. The qualitative data collected through the interviews were analyzed using NVivo version 15 software. The study established that there was a significant correlation between digital media and technology adoption (r=.336), and between digital media and news production (r=.295). It was further revealed that there was a significant correlation between news production and technology adoption (r=0.646). It was also revealed that digital media significantly influenced news production (R2=0.087, F(1,102)= 9.701, p<.05). The study further established that there was a significant moderation effect of technology adoption on the relationship between digital media and news production at Royal Media services, Kenya (R2=0.3781, F(1,100)= 4.0192 and p<0.05). It was established that major challenges of technology adoption on digital media and news production are fake news and unethical reporting. The study recommends regular continuous training and capacity building of journalists in order to equip them with the latest technology for news production. The study further recommends more resource allocation and investment in new technological tools for digital news production. The study further recommends integration of digital media skills in the training and curriculum of media studies. This study offers valuable insights for media companies and organizations in Kenya, helping them make informed strategic decisions on improving news production processes and improving journalism quality in the country. The study informs policymakers and regulators about the challenges journalists face when producing news and suggest potential policy solutions to address these challenges.Daystar Universit
Technological Drivers of User-Generated Content in Local Film and Television Production in Kenya
No full textJournal ArticlePurpose: The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of technological factors of user-generated content (UGC) such as the accessibility of digital devices, internet connectivity as well as social media usage to on the quality, quantity and diversity and budgets of local film and TV production in Kenya.
Methodology: The study used a descriptive cross-sectional mixed-methods design to examine the influence of technological factors of UGC on local film and TV production in Kenya. The target population was 2,716 local film, TV producers and UGC creators on YouTube, Instagram and TikTok. A sample of 384 respondents were selected using proportionate stratified random sampling technique. Qualitative data was collected through interviews with 24 key informants from the local film and TV production industry, KFC, KFCB, KECOBO, DFS and CA who were selected using purposive sampling. Primary data was collected using questionnaires and analyzed using both the descriptive analysis (percentages) and inferential statistical analysis (correlation, regression and ANOVA) methods. The analyzed data was presented in graphs and tables and was also interpreted statistically.
Findings: The findings revealed that 71% of respondents agreed that digital devices are accessible, with 88.5% highlighting their ease of use, which has democratized content creation and enabled wider participation. Reliable internet connectivity was viewed as essential by 78.6% of respondents, with 41.6% strongly agreeing that uninterrupted internet access facilitates efficient content dissemination and real-time collaboration. Social media platforms were recognized as critical enablers, with 96.2% agreeing that they promote UGC creation, while 91.4% noted that content-sharing trends positively influenced local film and TV production by enhancing visibility and engagement. These findings emphasize the pivotal role of technological factors in supporting innovation, accessibility, and growth within Kenya's local film and TV industry.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The findings of the analyzed data revealed that technological factors of UGC, when considered with the influence of media policy have a significant positive influence on local film and TV production. Additionally, the study uncovered the perceived usefulness, accessibility and ease of use of these technologies in the creative processes highlighting the importance of technology and its integration with supportive media policies in the positive growth of local film and TV production in Kenya. The study suggests that the integration of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Advocacy Coalition framework (ACF) explain the influence of UGC on local film and TV production in Kenya. It broadens the application of TAM to creative industries, showing how access to digital devices and internet connectivity drive media production. Altogether, this research bridges theory, practice and policy, enriching the understanding of how UGC influences local film and TV production in Kenya
Firm Size and Sustainability Reporting in the Nairobi Securities Exchange, Kenya
No full textJournal articleGlobally, there is huge concern about the effect of economic development on the sustainability of environmental and social resources. These concerns are growing in the current age with the huge effect experienced by global warming on the sustainability of the planet and its resources. The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of firm size on sustainability reporting from the perspective of firms published on the security exchange system in Nairobi. This study was guided by four key objectives: Analyzed the effect of Market Capitalization on sustainability reporting in the context of companies listed at Nairobi Exchange market, Kenya, analyzed the effect of Sales value on sustainability reporting in the context of companies listed at Nairobi Exchange market, Kenya and analyzed the effect of net assets on sustainability reporting in the context of companies listed at Nairobi Exchange market, Kenya. The study was underpinned by the agency theory, signaling theory and resource-based theory. This research utilized descriptive research design, which accommodated quantitative research methodologies. In the context of firms listed on the NSE, the entire population consisting of the 64 companies listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange was the basis of the research. The stratified sampling technique was used to collect primary data using a semi- structured questionnaire. The validity of the data was assessed through content validity and criterion validity, while reliability was evaluated using Cronbach alpha coefficients to measure internal consistency of the variable under study. The data was analyzed using SPSS, employing descriptive statistics and reg was presented in the form of tables, frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviation. Ethical considerations were also taken into perspective. The findings of the results revealed a positive and statistically significant relationship between sustainability reporting and firm size. Firms with high market capitalization, sales value and high net assets were found to significantly influence sustainability reporting. The study recommends that firms invest in high market capitalization, sales value and net assets and adopt strategies that align with the modern sustainability demands. The findings are expected to benefit various shareholders, firms, academicians and regulators in understanding the role of firm size in enhancing sustainability reporting
Examining the Relationships Between Parenting Styles and Attachment Styles in Adolescents: A Case of Garden Estate Secondary School in Nairobi County, Kenya
No full textMaster of Arts in Counselling PsychologyAdolescence is a pivotal developmental stage and the quality of the parent-child relationship is central to this progression. The study sought to examine the relationship between parenting styles and attachment styles among adolescents at Garden Estate Secondary School in Nairobi, Kenya. Its objectives were to examine the predominant parenting styles employed by parents/guardians of adolescents, establish the attachment styles exhibited by adolescents and analyse the relationship between parenting styles and adolescent attachment styles. The study was anchored on the Attachment Theory, Parenting Styles Theory, Self Determination Theory and Ecological Systems Theory. A correlational research design was adopted, with a sample size of 265 respondents selected using stratified random sampling technique. In data collection, the Parental Style Four Figure Questionnaire (PSFFQ) was used to collect data on adolescents’ perceptions of their parents' parenting behaviors, while the Attachment Style Questionnaire (ASQ) was used to assess respondents’ individual attachment orientations. The collected data was analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Authoritative parenting was the most dominant and positively cited style employed by the adolescents. Also, at 63%, secure attachment was the most dominant style endorsed by adolescents. Regarding anxious attachment styles, while most adolescents did not constantly fear loss of love, 69% reported distress when ignored, showing that anxious tendencies exist but were not as dominant as secure ones. Both authoritative and permissive parenting showed a correlation with secure attachment (r = 0.086, p = .251, r = 0.160, p = 0.032) respectively, implying a weak, positive and statistically significant relationship. Neglectful parenting on its part showed a correlation with secure attachment where r = –0.174, implying a weak, negative statistically significant relationship. The study concluded that there was a parenting landscape for adolescents where involvement and support were strongly emphasized, but often balanced with firmness and discipline, demonstrating a hybrid parenting system aligning partly with authoritative ideals while integrating authoritarianism elements. It was also concluded that authoritative parenting provides mild but protective cushion toward secure attachment, while authoritarian, permissive, and particularly neglectful parenting practice significantly heightens the chances of insecure attachments. The study recommends that Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) and Faith-Based groups should organize sensitization programs through campaigns, addressing harmful disciplinary tendencies and fostering parent–child relationships that are supportive of secure attachments. Similarly, counseling sessions should include attachment-based interventions to assist adolescents going through anxiety in parental relationships, educating both parents and their children the strategies that can be useful in enhancing responsiveness and trust. Mental health professionals should include parenting style evaluations into their adolescent counseling sessions, since family dynamics directly determine attachment and wellbeing. Schools need to strengthen guidance and counseling programs in support teenagers exhibiting anxious traits, enabling them manage insecurity feelings and building coping mechanisms.Daystar Universit
The Burdens of Care on Informal Caregivers of Patients with Mental Disorders Attending Clinics at Mathari Teaching and Referral Hospital
No full textJournal ArticleCaregiving for patients with mental disorders places significant burdens on informal caregivers, manifesting as physical and psychological strain over extended periods. Most research examining caregiving burden variations has been conducted in Western countries, creating a knowledge gap regarding the specific nature and intensity of these burdens in the Kenyan context, particularly at Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital.
Purpose of the Study:This study aimed to investigate the burdens of care experienced by informal caregivers of patients with mental disorders attending clinics at Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital.
Methodology:A descriptive survey design was employed, targeting informal caregivers who accompanied patients with mental disorders to Mathari Hospital. Using purposive sampling, 92 caregivers were selected based on the Krejce and Morgan table, with 80 completed questionnaires included in the final analysis. Data collection utilized the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI), a validated 22-item tool with strong psychometric properties (Cronbach alpha 0.93, test-retest reliability 0.89), alongside a researcher-designed sociodemographic questionnaire. Data analysis employed SPSS version 25, using descriptive and inferential statistics.Findings:The findings revealed that caregiver burden scores ranged from 8 to 68 on the ZBI scale. A large number of caregivers scored between 31-36 (mild to moderate burden) and 52-58 (moderate to severe burden). This diversity in scores indicated a wide range of experiences among caregivers, with a significant proportion experiencing moderate to severe burdens that potentially put them at risk for developing physical and mental health issues.
Conclusion and Recommendations:Caregivers at Mathari Hospital experience considerable levels of burden that require comprehensive support mechanisms. The study recommended that healthcare systems incorporate caregiver well-being into treatment plans through psychological support, financial aid, and educational programs that help caregivers manage stress and provide be
Assessing The Socio-Economic Impact of Armed Conflict on Women in South Kivu, Drc (2000-2020)
No full textMasters in Diplomacy, Development And International SecurityThis thesis proposal assessed the socio-economic impact of armed conflict on women in South Kivu, DRC, between 2000 and 2020. The study investigated how prolonged conflict shaped women’s income, health, education, social roles, and overall quality of life within a context of displacement, violence, and resource competition. Guided by feminist conflict theory, intersectionality, protracted social conflict theory, and policy implementation theory, the study framed the analysis around identity-based tensions, inequalities, and institutional barriers that perpetuated women’s vulnerability. The research focused on women’s lived realities, particularly internally displaced persons and survivors of gender-based violence, while highlighting how multiple identities such as age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status influenced resilience. A mixed-methods design was adopted, combining stratified surveys with purposive interviews and focus groups. Primary data were gathered through questionnaires and in-depth interviews, supported by pretesting for clarity and cultural relevance. Reliability was tested using Cronbach’s alpha, while validity was ensured through expert review. Quantitative analysis employed descriptive statistics and inferential tests, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed. The study aimed to provide both measurable trends and personal experiences, producing actionable insights for policymakers, NGOs, and local communities. The findings were anticipated to guide gender-sensitive recovery strategies, strengthen resilience programs, and contribute to peacebuilding initiatives. Suggestions for future research included expanding the scope, integrating additional variables, and exploring longitudinal perspectives to address knowledge gaps. The study revealed that armed conflict between 2000 and 2020 had a severe and multidimensional socio-economic impact on women in South Kivu, DRC, with quantitative findings showing strong correlations between conflict exposure and losses in income, education, health, and livelihood stability, while regression results highlighted the moderating role of interventions such as humanitarian aid, education initiatives, legal frameworks, and community support. Qualitative narratives reinforced these findings by illustrating the lived realities of women, marked by displacement, poverty, food insecurity, sexual violence, and deteriorating living conditions, with young women particularly vulnerable. The conclusions established that conflict systematically eroded women’s stability and security, yet effective interventions, though limited, provided critical buffers, emphasizing the need for stronger institutional frameworks and sustainable empowerment strategies. Based on these findings, the study recommended strengthening legal protections against gender-based violence, expanding livelihood recovery and empowerment programs, integrating women’s needs into peacebuilding and recovery strategies, and institutionalizing support mechanisms into national development frameworks to bridge emergency relief with long-term resilience. Suggestions for further research included adopting longitudinal designs using secondary data, expanding the scope to other regions or demographic groups, incorporating additional independent variables such as cultural norms and governance quality, and embracing participatory mixed-method approaches to ensure that women’s voices directly inform theory, policy, and practice in addressing conflict’s socio-economic toll.Daystar Universit