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Effects of Social Media on The Mental Health of Youth in Selected Catholic Churches in Mavoko Subcounty, Machakos County, Kenya
No full textMASTERS in Clinical PsychologyThe growing prevalence of social media use among youth presents both opportunities for connection and concerns about its psychological implications. In Kenya, particularly in semi-urban areas like Machakos County, there has been limited exploration of how engagement with social media affects the mental health of young people. This study looked into how social media usage impacted the mental health of individuals aged 18–35 years in selected Catholic churches within Mavoko Sub-County, focusing on widely used platforms including TikTok, WhatsApp, and Instagram. It also investigated strategies to alleviate the negative effects of digital engagement. The research was based on Social Comparison Theory, Uses and Gratifications Theory, Cultivation Theory, and Ecological Systems Theory, providing a framework for comprehending how social media influences emotional and cognitive well-being. A cross-sectional mixed-methods approach was utilized, targeting around 950 youth and various key informants, including counselors and youth leaders. The study included a sample of 282 youth respondents and 63 parent respondents, gathered through purposive and stratified random sampling techniques to ensure diverse representation across gender, age, and involvement in church activities. Quantitative data were processed using IBM SPSS, while qualitative findings from open-ended questions offered richer contextual insights. The Social-Media–Mental Health Scale, adapted from the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), showed high reliability (α = .937). Results indicated that emotional and cognitive factors, particularly anxiety, self-comparison, and mental exhaustion, yielded the highest mean scores, suggesting that psychological distress stemmed more from internalized comparisons than from the amount of time spent online. Correlation analysis showed a significant positive relationship between social comparison and mental health distress (r = .253, p < .05), while regression analysis pinpointed social comparison as the principal predictor of poor mental health (B = .356, p = .038). Additionally, qualitative data revealed that parents noticed behavioral changes in youth, such as social withdrawal, disrupted routines, and mood swings. The study concluded that the quality of social media interaction, rather than the duration of online activity, serves as the key factor influencing youth mental health. It recommended the implementation of cognitive-behavioral interventions to assist youth in confronting distorted self-perceptions and managing online comparisons, along with digital literacy and faith-based mentorship programs to promote responsible media engagement within families, schools, and church communities. The research emphasized that social media is not inherently detrimental; instead, its psychological effects are contingent upon how individuals interpret and emotionally engage with their digital experienceDaystar Universit
Perception of University Students on The Impact of Instagram Use on Their Self-Esteem: A Case of Undergraduate Students At The University of Nairobi
No full textMaster of Arts in communicationIn today’s digital age, social media platforms like Instagram have become central to the daily lives of university students. Instagram, a visually-driven platform, allows users to share images, videos, and stories while offering a space for social interaction through likes, comments, and followers. Its rapid rise in popularity has made it one of the most influential social media platforms among young adults, especially university students. While Instagram offers a platform for self-expression, social interaction, and connection with peers, concerns have been raised about its potential impact on the mental health of young users. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of Instagram use on the self- esteem of students at the UON. The objectives of the study were to assess the frequency of Instagram usage among students at the UON, to analyse the extent to which social comparison fuelled by Instagram use affect the self-esteem of students at the UON, to determine the perceived effects of Instagram use on the self-esteem of students at the UON, and to establish strategies that can be implemented to mitigate any negative effects of Instagram usage on the self-esteem of youths in university settings. The Social Comparison Theory guided the study. The descriptive research design involved systematically collecting data through questionnaires distributed among students at UON. Slovin formula was employed to sample 315 respondents. The findings showed that the respondents used Instagram several times a day (49%); engage on Instagram to compare lifestyles (88%); Instagram usage promotes social isolation (80%); and the most efficient strategy to mitigate negative effects of Instagram usage is limiting usage (59%). The study concluded that excessive use of Instagram is associated with academic challenges, sleep disruption, social isolation, and negative self-esteem. The study recommends that universities and other stakeholders should develop educational campaigns and workshops to promote responsible Instagram usage among students.Daystar University
Master Of Arts
in communicatio
The Effect of Life Skills Education Under CBE on Teenage Pregnancy: A Case of Junior Secondary Schools in Babadogo Ward, Ruaraka Sub-County, Nairobi
No full textMASTER OF ARTS in Community DevelopmentTeenage pregnancy remains a major concern in Kenya, particularly in informal settlements such as Babadogo Ward, Nairobi, where it presents serious educational, social, and health challenges. Early pregnancies often lead to school dropouts, limited economic opportunities, and intergenerational cycles of poverty. This study examined the influence of life skills education implemented within the Competency-Based Education (CBE) framework on teenage pregnancy among Junior Secondary School learners in Babadogo Ward, Ruaraka Sub-County, Nairobi. Specifically, the study sought to assess learners’ knowledge of life skills, determine whether this knowledge translated into behaviour change, identify challenges affecting the effectiveness of life skills education, and evaluate its overall impact on teenage pregnancy prevention. The study was guided by Life Skills Theory, Social Learning Theory, and Ecological Systems Theory, which collectively emphasize the interaction between individual capacities, social learning processes, and environmental contexts in shaping adolescent behaviour and decision-making. These theoretical foundations provided a framework for understanding how internalized skills, social influences, and community environments collectively determine the effectiveness of life skills education in addressing issues related to teenage sexuality and reproductive health. A descriptive mixed-methods research design was employed, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches to enhance the validity and depth of findings. The target population comprised 158 Junior Secondary learners drawn from Sunrays and Babadogo Primary Schools, six life skills facilitators, and two school administrators. Data were collected using questionnaires, interview schedules, and focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were thematically analysed to capture participants’ perceptions and lived experiences. The findings revealed that life skills education had significantly enhanced learners’ knowledge, confidence, decision-making abilities, and their capacity to resist risky behaviours such as early sexual engagement and substance abuse. However, the study also found that several contextual and systemic barriers limited the full effectiveness of life skills education. These included poverty, peer pressure, cultural taboos surrounding open discussions of sexuality, inadequate parental involvement, and inconsistent delivery of reproductive health content. Moreover, while learners demonstrated awareness of general life skills, fewer than half exhibited strong understanding of sexual and reproductive health topics, reflecting gaps in curriculum coverage and implementation fidelity. The study concluded that life skills education positively influences adolescent behaviour and has the potential to reduce teenage pregnancy when effectively delivered and supported. However, its success depends on sustained institutional commitment, teacher preparedness, and active engagement of parents and community stakeholders. The research underscores the need for comprehensive reinforcement of the CBE life skills component through teacher training, participatory pedagogies, and integration of culturally sensitive reproductive health content. The study’s findings are valuable to the Ministry of Education, curriculum developers, school administrators, teachers, parents, and non-governmental organizations seeking to strengthen adolescent reproductive health interventions. They provide evidence-based insights for developing targeted policies and community-based programs aimed at empowering learners with practical decision-making abilities and fostering supportive environments that reduce the prevalence of teenage pregnancy in informal settlements.Daystar Universit
Sexual Education and Its Influence on Sexual Behaviours among Adolescents in Kenya
No full textMaster of Education in Leadership and Policy StudiesThis study explored the influence of sexual education on adolescents’ sexual behaviors in Ndhiwa Sub County, Kenya. The objectives were to assess the current state of sexual education among adolescents, identify factors contributing to risky sexual behaviors and determine the relationship between sexual education and engagement in such behaviors. The study was guided by the Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) and Ecological model of Adolescent behavior. The study applied a mixed methods design. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 360 adolescents, while qualitative data were obtained through semi structured interviews with 10 educators. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlations, and regression models, while qualitative data were examined thematically to identify emerging patterns and insights. Findings revealed that 78.9% of adolescents who participated in the study had received some form of sexual education. However, content delivery was inconsistent and often limited to topics like HIV and abstinence, with inadequate attention to consent, relationships, and emotional well being. Risky sexual behaviors were reported among 41% of respondents, including condom non use (11.7%), multiple partners (12.8%), and transactional sex (8.3%). A composite RSB score showed that while the majority exhibited low risk behavior, a vulnerable minority engaged in multiple risky practices. Statistical analysis demonstrated a strong inverse relationship between sexual education and RSB, with significant differences in RSB scores between adolescents who received sex education and those who did not (t = 4.519, p < .001). Regression analysis confirmed that sex education exposure significantly predicted lower RSB engagement (β = 0.204, p < .001). Qualitative data reinforced these findings, revealing that supportive environments, resource availability, and cultural attitudes influenced delivery and outcomes. The study concluded that comprehensive, early, and contextually relevant sexual education is essential in reducing adolescent vulnerability to sexual health risks and recommends scaling up structured programs in both school and community settings.Daystar Universit
Effects of Parental Problematic Alcohol Use on Teenagers’ Psychosocial Well-Being: A Case of Selected Schools In Kirinyaga County, Kenya
No full textMasters in Clinical PsychologyGlobally 237 million men and 46 million women have alcohol use problems, representing 5.1% of adults living with alcohol use disorders. In Kenya, excess alcohol use affects individuals between 15-65+ years, with alcohol use problems rated at 12.2%. However, limited research exists on how parental problematic alcohol use specifically affects teenagers' psychosocial well-being in rural Kenyan communities, creating a critical knowledge gap for developing effective interventions. Parental problematic alcohol use has significant repercussions on the psychosocial well-being of teenagers. Thus, the study investigated the effects of parental problematic alcohol use on the psychosocial well-being of teenagers in Kenya, specifically in Kirinyaga County. The objectives were to establish the prevalence of teenagers with parents who engage in problematic alcohol use, assess their psychosocial well-being, and explore their coping mechanisms. The study was grounded in psychoanalytic social theory, psychosocial development theory and social learning theory, employing descriptive research design with mixed methods. Data was collected using the Children of Alcoholics Screening Test (CAST-6), the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and key informant interviews. The study found that 45.96% of teenagers were affected by parental problematic alcohol use, with male teenagers (53.3%) reporting significantly higher exposure than females (39.6%). Assessment of psychosocial well-being revealed gendered vulnerabilities, with girls exhibiting more emotional distress and social withdrawal, while boys showed more conduct-related issues, though 80.3% of all respondents maintained normal prosocial behavior. Despite the challenges, a large majority (70.8%) maintained normal prosocial functioning demonstrating good coping strengths. The study used chi-square tests to test the hypothesis showing a strong association between parental problematic alcohol use and the psychosocial wellbeing of teenagers. The study concludes that parental problematic alcohol use significantly affects teenagers' psychosocial well-being in Kirinyaga County, though many demonstrate remarkable resilience through prosocial behaviors. Recommendations include implementing systematic screening in schools to identify affected students, developing coordinated support programs through churches and community organizations, strengthening alcohol regulation enforcement, and expanding treatment options for parents with alcohol problems. The study also suggests further research on long-term outcomes for affected teenagers and the effectiveness of specific interventions.Daystar Universit
Assessing The Role of Regional Institutions in Countering Terrorism in Africa: A Case of East Africa Community Counter Terrorism Strategies in Kenya.
No full textConfronting the security concerns that have defined the twenty-first century is a difficult and diverse endeavor. The African continent, which has endured multiple periods of fragility and instability ranging from the early colonial expansion to the Cold War, is a striking example of its complexity. Recent developments fueled by the Global War on Terror (GWOT) have complicated security dynamics, as the continent continues to host a variety of competing interests from domestic, regional, and international actors. In this regard, it can be challenging and even hazardous to make broad generalizations about security concerns throughout the African continent. Insofar as current events in Africa suggest that an African peace and security regime is emerging, despite efforts to address and resolve the problems, additional factors are endangering the continent's stability. This study's objective is to evaluate the effectiveness regional institutions in countering terrorism with a specific look into EAC counter terrorism strategies employed in Kenya. East Africa community has faced threats and attacks from terrorist groups causing a level of insecurity within the region countries like Tanzania and Uganda have been victims of terrorism activities and in Kenya alone, more than five terrorism attacks have been launched consistently by the Al shabaab, causing loss of life and destruction of peace. This study aims to address this gap by assessing the impact of EAC counter terrorism strategies on peace and security in Kenya, as well as offering an in-depth analysis on the challenges and opportunities faced by Kenya in implementing EAC counter terrorism strategies in shaping peace and security. In this study Collective security theory and Neoliberal Institutional theory are useful in examining the impact of EAC counter terrorism strategies in Kenya. The study employed a case study design using a qualitative research method and data collection tools such as interviews and questionnaires. This approach facilitates a comprehensive analysis of the contextual insights into the effectiveness of EAC counter-terrorism implementation. Data analysis includes thematic analysis for qualitative data, aiming to provide a robust understanding of the relationship between regional institutions and their role in promoting peace and security through countering terrorism in Kenya within the EAC framework. The study established that international there were international responses to terrorism which led to significant improvement in intelligence sharing and border protection. The study also found that to a great extent the AU is vital for countering terror in member states as a way of filling the gaps left by members due to low capacity and inadequate mechanism. The study further established that the most faced challenges were corruption, porous borders and radicalization of the youths. The study concludes that the intelligence sharing among the EAC member states constitutes an integral part of counter terrorism mechanism in the fight against terror. The study further concludes that AU vital for countering terror in member states as a way of filling the gaps left by members due to low capacity and inadequate mechanism. The study thus concludes that to contain terrorism priority must be given in addressing corruption, radicalization, porous borders and marginalization. The study recommends that the security agents to coordinate with the local communities to gain their trust in order to increase public participation in countering terrorism.Daystar Universit
An Assessment of Social Media use in Public Relations among Mobile Telecommunication Companies in Kenya: A Case of Safaricom Plc, Airtel Kenya and Telkom Kenya
No full textMaster of Arts in Corporate CommunicationThis study examines the use of social media in public relations among Kenya’s leading mobile telecommunication companies—Safaricom PLC, Airtel Kenya, and Telkom Kenya. It explores how these companies utilize X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram to communicate with and respond to their public. The research was guided by four objectives: to examine the modalities of social media use by Safaricom, Airtel Kenya, and Telkom Kenya; to assess the reasons for their use of social media; to determine the effects of this use; and to evaluate the effectiveness of the social media tools employed. A mixed-methods research design was adopted, combining quantitative data from questionnaires administered to employees with qualitative insights from interviews with senior communication managers. The findings reveal that social media platforms have become integral to the communication strategies of all three companies, largely due to their widespread adoption among Kenyans. Companies primarily use these platforms to enhance engagement, respond promptly to customer concerns, and manage corporate reputation. Social media’s capacity to reach wide and diverse audiences makes it a crucial tool for real-time interaction. However, the study also notes the risks associated with the immediacy of social media, including the potential spread of misinformation and misinterpretation of corporate messages. The study concludes that while social media significantly enhances responsiveness and customer relations, it requires careful and strategic management to protect corporate reputation. It recommends that mobile telecommunication companies adopt comprehensive social media policies, ensure continuous monitoring, and invest in staff training to promote effective, ethical, and sustainable online communication practicesDaystar Universit
Strategic Innovations and Financial Performance of Registered Private Security Firms in Nairobi County, Kenya.
No full textMASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION in Finance and Strategic ManagementDespite the rapid growth of the private security sector, driven by increasing security needs in the country, their financial performance has declined. Several private security firms reported a decline in net profit and a 5% decrease in market share, indicating severe financial constraints, primarily due to investments in vital innovations. Therefore, this study sought to determine the effect of strategic innovations on the financial performance of registered private security firms in Nairobi County, Kenya. It was guided by these objectives, assessing the effect of business process innovation, customer experience innovation, and workforce management innovation, and examining the moderating effect of government policies on the relationship between strategic innovations and the financial performance among registered private security firms in Nairobi County. The study was underpinned by the Resource-Based View theory and other theories, including Innovation Diffusion Theory, Modigliani and Miller Theory, and Public Interest theory, which served as the foundation for the moderating variable. The study was guided by descriptive and correlational research designs. The population comprised employees from all 64 private security firms registered with the PSRA in Nairobi County, categorized under KSIA. The target population focused on senior managers across five functional departments in all 64 firms, totaling 355 employees. The study determined the sample size using Yamane (1967) formula, which resulted to 188 respondents. The study applied stratified sampling techniques to cluster respondents into groups. The primary data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires. The study pretested 18 respondents from PSIA firms that are registered with PSRA in Nairobi. The study was guided by content and face validity. While the reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha coefficient which was assumed to be >0.7. The study analyzed both descriptive statistics, using minimum, maximum, means and standard deviations. While the inferential statistics was analyzed using correlation and regression analyses. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 29.0. The findings of the study showed that all the three constructs, business process innovation, workforce management innovation, and customer experience innovation had a positive and statistically significant effect on the financial performance of private security firms in Nairobi County, Kenya. Additionally, the findings also highlighted that government policies significantly moderated the effect of the relationship between strategic innovations and financial performance, demonstrated by increased the R-squared value from 51. 2% to 72. 1%. Finally, the study recommended that private security firms should prioritize continuous training and development to enhance their workforce's technological skills.Daystar Universit
Strategic Leadership and Crisis Management Effectiveness at East African Portland Cement, Kenya
No full textMASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION in Strategic ManagementIn today’s increasingly volatile and complex business environment, the role of strategic leadership has become critical in navigating organizations through crises and ensuring sustained competitiveness. The cement industry in Kenya, especially government-owned entities such as parastatals and especially those in manufacturing such as East African Portland Cement (EAPC), face persistent operational and financial crises, often attributed to weak strategic leadership, regulatory challenges, and inefficiencies in management practices. As such, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of strategic leadership on crisis management effectiveness at East African Portland Cement. The specific objectives of the study were to; examine the effect of strategic direction, assess the effect of stakeholder engagement, investigate the effect of development of employee competencies on crisis management effectiveness at East African Portland Cement; and evaluate the moderating effect of industry regulations on the relationship between strategic leadership and crisis management effectiveness at East African Portland Cement. The study was anchored on Transformational Leadership Theory, Strategic Leadership Theory, Organizational Resilience Theory and Institutional Theory, providing a comprehensive theoretical foundation for understanding the dynamics of strategic leadership and crisis management effectiveness. An explanatory research design was employed on a census of 86 participants. The research used primary data, collected using a semi-structured questionnaires, which was appropriate for quantitative and thematic analysis. Data collected was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 29.0. Results revealed that strategic direction significantly enhanced crisis management effectiveness (R²=0.353, p<0.05), demonstrating the importance of clear communication, consistent vision, and adaptive strategy review. Stakeholder engagement was also significant (R²=0.293, p<0.05), underscoring the role of transparency, inclusivity, and feedback in strengthening resilience. Similarly, employee competencies positively influenced crisis management (R²=0.341, p<0.05), with empowerment, training, and career development pathways identified as critical factors. Industry regulations had a significant direct effect (β=0.344, p<0.05) on crisis preparedness, particularly through compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards. However, moderation analysis showed that the interaction between strategic leadership and regulations was statistically insignificant (β=0.116, p=0.179, p>0.05). The study concludes that effective strategic leadership enhances organizational resilience, with regulatory frameworks strengthening outcomes directly. These insights contribute to the realization of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure; SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth; and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production), align with Kenya’s Vision 2030 agenda of revitalizing manufacturing, and support the Africa Agenda 2063 goal of building resilient, competitive, and sustainable industries. Policy implications include institutionalizing strategic leadership practices, mainstreaming employee development, and embedding stakeholder engagement into governance frameworks to improve crisis readiness in Kenya’s manufacturing sector.Daystar Universit
Effects of 2024 Floods on Academic Performance of Learners in Public Primary Schools in Mathare Sub-County, Nairobi, Kenya.
No full textMasters of Arts in Child DevelopmentThis study investigated the effects of floods on the academic performance of Grade 7 learners in public primary schools in the Mathare sub-county, Nairobi, Kenya. Guided by disaster management theory, ecological systems theory, and environmental stress theory, the study employed a descriptive design that integrated both qualitative and quantitative data. Data was collected from 75 learners and 11 key informants using questionnaires and interviews, respectively. The quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 27, while the qualitative data were presented in verbatim form. The findings revealed extensive education disruptions. Nearly 80% of students reported irregular attendance, frequently missing up to half of the classes due to blocked roads, damaged infrastructure, and additional home duties. risk-informed urban planning for resilient infrastructure. Statistical analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between key domains of learner development &welfare, and academic performance (ρ = .71, p < .01), underscoring a strong link. Learners also faced food insecurity, unsafe housing, psychosocial distress, poor sanitation, and increased exposure to protection risks such as abuse, neglect, and child labor. Psychosocial effects were significant, with 64% reporting difficulty concentrating, 54% struggling with motivation, and 62% exhibiting behavioral issues, all of which negatively affected academic performance. This led to difficulties in catching up with lessons, declining grades, struggles in core subjects, and anxiety about repeating classes. Consequently, performance in the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) fell below expectations. Despite these challenges, 88.6% of students reported being optimistic about the future, which was supported by interventions such as counseling, food programs, catch-up coursework, as well as family and community support. The study recommends investment in education technology for learning continuity, integration of child protection and mental health into education in emergencies, adoption of AI for humanitarian response, risk-informed urban planning for resilient infrastructure, and advanced policies that utilize community-based adaptations for resilience and sustainability. Future studies should explore urban and peri-urban contexts, the long-term academic & psychosocial outcomes of these learners affected by floods, and an in-depth understanding of the vulnerabilities of marginalized populations, such as girls and children with disabilities. The findings emphasize the need for comprehensive, equity-focused approaches to enhance education resilience and safeguard child welfare in emergencies.Daystar Universit