Impact Of Childhood Trauma On Psychosocial Well-Being Of Rescued Street Boys: A Case Of Global Hope Rescue And Rehabilitation Centre In Ngong, Kajiado North County, Kenya

Abstract

Rescued street boys face significant trauma that impacts their psychosocial well-being. Their prevalence globally was worsened by conflicts, fractured family bonds, natural disasters, economic hardships, political changes, and disease outbreaks. Street boys across the globe are exposed to traumatic experiences that severely affect their psychosocial well-being. The study aims to: determine the effects of childhood traumatic events on social relations among the former street boys; establish forms of childhood traumas experienced by rescued street boys; assess the impact of childhood trauma on psychosocial wellbeing of rescued street boys; evaluate the impact of childhood trauma on cognitive development among former street boys and to assess ways of enhancing psycho-social wellbeing of former Street boys at Global Hope Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Ngong, Kajiado North County, Kenya. This study was guided by Ecological Systems Theory and Erikson’s Psychosocial Development Theory. A descriptive research design was employed, targeting all rescued street boys at the center. The target population comprised over 600 former street boys at the center. A sample of 65 participants was selected

using purposive sampling methods. Data collection involved structured questionnaires and in- depth interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while

qualitative data underwent content analysis. Results indicated that 36.67% of participants reported feeling unsafe during childhood, 33.33% experienced physical trauma, and 25% endured emotional neglect. Deep emotional trauma was the most prevalent emotional issue, affecting 50% of respondents, while cognitive difficulties, particularly problems with concentration were reported by 41.67%. Psychosocial challenges included 38.33% of the boys struggling to maintain a positive outlook when facing adversity. Statistical analysis revealed significant negative correlations between types of traumas, such as emotional abuse (r = -0.589) and neglect (r = - 0.518), and overall psychosocial well-being. The findings concluded that childhood trauma significantly impairs emotional, cognitive, and social functioning among rescued street boys. This underscores the need for trauma-informed rehabilitation programs that integrate emotional healing, cognitive support, and social reintegration. The study recommends full implementation of the Children Act (2022) and fostering multisectoral collaboration to ensure effective, long-term recovery and reintegration of rescued street boys.