Effectiveness of Behavioural Activation on Reduction of Depression Symptoms among Children and Adolescents: A Study of Seven Selected Children’s Homes in Kajiado County, Kenya
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Date
2018
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Elixir
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of behavioural activation (BA) in reducing depression symptoms in a sample of 186 children and adolescents from selected children’s homes in Kajiado County. This study was quasi-experimental and used the operant conditioning theory. This theory was ideal because children and adolescents are subject to various positive consequences that subtly shape their behaviour. The participants were purposively sampled and were between ages 9-17 both males and females with a mean age of 13. Participants with scores of 11 or higher on the depression subscale were randomly assigned into either experimental or control arms. The experimental arm received 10 sessions of BA with the control arm receiving treatment as usual (TAU). The participants completed a demographic questionnaire as well as CDI to assess for depression symptoms. Multiple linear regression analysis using SPSS Version 20 was used to identify factors independently associated with levels of depression symptoms. The mean score for the levels of depression was 18.6 (±5.6SD). The CDI scores reduction among the participants was significantly associated with time of follow-up (Estimate= -5.86; 95% CI: -8.91 to -2.81; p<0.001) and the intervention (Estimate= -1.86; 95% CI: -3.22 to -0.50; p=0.012). Based on these findings, BA is recommended for children and adolescents presenting with symptoms of depression. Further, this study will help curriculum developers to integrate mental health into the school curriculum. This will help in arresting the symptoms of depression among children and adolescents appropriately and timely.
Description
Journal Article
Keywords
Depression, Effectiveness.
Citation
Munene, A., Chege, M., & Radoli, L. O. (2018). Effectiveness of Behavioural Activation on Reduction of Depression Symptoms among Children and Adolescents: A Study of Seven Selected Children’s Homes in Kajiado County, Kenya. Elixir.