Interpersonal Communication in Counselling Departments in Nairobi Secondary Schools

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the patterns of interpersonal communication interaction in Guidance and Counseling Departments in Kenyan secondary schools against an interpersonal communication theoretical framework. This study serves as a guide for teacher-counsellors to know the best medium to use so as to effectively communicate with students in counseling situations. In order to investigate the teacher-counsellor's interpersonal communication skills, the study was to be guided by the following questions: 1) What are the current interpersonal communication skills used by teacher- counsellors in secondary schools? 2) Does the teacher-counsellor have any professional counseling training or skills? 3) In what environment is the counseling done? 4) How much time is given to a counseling session per student? 5) How does the teacher draw out the student to respond to him/her? 6) Are students free to get counseling any time? 7) Who do students prefer a counselor? 8) Does the student think his/her psycho-social need is adequately met in counseling? 9) How does the counseling process in practice relate to theory in terms of interpersonal communication skills.