Assessment of Enhanced School-Based Parental Mentorship Program on The Emotional Wellness of Adolescents: Case of Merishaw School, Isinya, Kajiado County, Kenya

Abstract

This study examined the role of structured parental mentorship in promoting emotional wellness among adolescents at Merishaw School. Adolescents in elite, rural-urban transitional schools face psychological strain from academic pressure, digital influence, and limited parental engagement. Despite growing awareness of student mental health in Kenya, few studies have explored structured parental mentorship as a school-based intervention. Using a mixed-methods design, the study combined surveys and interviews with students, teachers, and parents to assess the impact of the Enhanced School-Based Parental Mentorship Program (ESB-PMP) on emotional regulation, resilience, and relational wellbeing. Quantitative results showed significant reductions in stress, anxiety, and depression, while correlations and regressions indicated strong negative associations between mentorship dimensions and adverse emotional outcomes. Qualitative findings highlighted improved parent-child communication, teacher-student relationships, and community engagement. The study concludes that structured parental mentorship fosters supportive school-family ecosystems, strengthens adolescent emotional wellness, and fills a critical Kenyan research gap. Recommendations include integrating mentorship programs into schools, promoting active parental involvement, and conducting longitudinal research