Effects of Parental Substance Abuse on Adolescents’ Psychological Well-Being in Kibera, Kenya

Abstract

The main aim of the study was to analyze the effects of parental substance abuse on adolescents’ well-being in Kibera, Kenya. The objectives of the study were to investigate the psychosocial effects of parental substance abuse (PSA) on adolescents’ well-being, determine the levels of psychological well-being among adolescents, establish the correlation between the psychosocial effects of PSA and the psychological well-being of adolescents, and identify the coping strategies adopted by adolescents affected by PSA. The study was guided by the Family Systems Theory developed by Murray Bowen (1974), recognized as the first comprehensive theory of family systems, and the Social Learning Theory. A mixed-method research design was employed to collect, analyze, and integrate both quantitative and qualitative approaches within a single study to enhance understanding of the research problem. The study population comprised households in Kibera affected by parental substance abuse, and the target population consisted of adolescents from these households. The sample size was determined using the Yamane formula. Systematic random sampling was used to select a sample of 254 respondents for questionnaire administration, while purposive sampling was used to select participants for interviews. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected using questionnaires and interview guides. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically, while quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. Ethical standards were maintained and applied throughout data collection, analysis, and dissemination. The results were presented using tables. The findings of the study are intended to inform policy review on parental substance abuse and the safeguarding of children in affected households. Key findings revealed significant psychosocial effects of PSA on adolescents, including strained relationships, bullying, and overwhelming responsibilities, with 56% reporting experiences of bullying and 57% feeling overwhelmed at least sometimes. Levels of psychological well-being were found to be mixed, with 62% agreeing that they had a sense of purpose, while 65% perceived life as unfair. A strong negative correlation was established between psychosocial effects such as loneliness and psychological well-being indicators such as happiness and trust. Coping strategies identified included religious activities (32.9%), counseling (27%), talking to friends (21.9%), and recreational activities (18.1%). The study concluded that PSA has profound psychosocial and psychological impacts on adolescents, necessitating targeted interventions to mitigate these effects. Recommendations include expanding counseling services, implementing community-based support programs, and promoting awareness campaigns to address stigma and provide support for affected adolescents. Key Words : Parental Substance Abuse (PSA)