Assessment of Attachment Styles and Conduct Disorder among Adolescents: A Case of Selected Approved Schools in Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

This study sought to assess attachment styles and conduct disorder among adolescents in selected approved schools in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study was guided by four main objectives: first, to assess the types of attachment styles among adolescents in these institutions; second, to determine the prevalence of conduct disorder among the adolescents; third, to establish the correlation between attachment styles and conduct disorder; and fourth, to analyze potential interventions and support mechanisms to mitigate conduct disorder among these adolescents. The research was grounded in Attachment Theory, Social Learning Theory, and General Strain Theory. A convergent parallel design with a mixed approach was employed, wherein both quantitative and qualitative data was collected simultaneously. This design allows for separate analysis of the data types, followed by the integration of the findings to provide a holistic interpretation of the research problem. The study focused on two approved schools: Kabete Rehabilitation Centre and Dagoretti Girls Rehabilitation Centre. These institutions were chosen due to their historical significance as the first correctional and rehabilitation facilities for adolescents registered with the Ministry of Education in Kenya, catering to boys and girls aged between ten and seventeen years. The study employed a census sampling method, and data was collected from 66 participants. Data was collected using standardized questionnaires and structured interviews to ensure the reliability and validity of the findings. Quantitative data was analyzed using inferential statistical analysis with IBM SPSS version 28, while qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis with QSR NVivo version 20. The study found a high prevalence of conduct disorder (48.5% severe cases) and insecure attachment styles (71.2%) among participants. A significant correlation was observed between avoidant attachment and severe conduct disorder (OR=24.03, p=0.011). Orphaned status and prolonged institutionalization were identified as risk factors. The qualitative analysis revealed emotional regulation pathways linking attachment styles to behavioral outcomes. These findings underscore the importance of attachment-informed interventions in institutional care settings for adolescents. The study contributes to the understanding of the complex interplay between attachment styles and conduct disorder, offering insights for targeted interventions and policy development in similar contexts