The Association Between Parental Negligence And Adolescents’ Mental Health: A Case of Adolescent Children in Selected Schools In Mathare Sub County, Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

Adolescents globally face significant mental health problems, as evidenced by the World Health Organization's 2016 report, which attributed 16% of the disease burden among teenagers to mental health. Depression emerged as the leading cause of illness and disability, with suicide ranking as the second leading cause of death among adolescents, followed closely by self-harm. This research investigates the intricate intersection of mental health problems and parental neglect among adolescents aged 12 to 19 in Mathare sub-county, Nairobi County, Kenya. The objectives of this study were threefold: first, to establish the prevalence of mental health problems such as depression and stress among adolescents in the study area; second, to explore instances and forms of parental neglect experienced by these adolescents, including bullying by teachers, parents, and peers, high community expectations, and lack of support; and third, to assess the association between parental neglect and the mental health outcomes of adolescents. The theoretical framework guiding this research incorporates attachment theory, ecological systems theory, and the stress process model. These theories provide a comprehensive lens through which to understand how parental neglect impacts adolescent mental health within the socio-ecological context of Mathare sub-county. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, involving 377 adolescents selected from various schools within the study area. Data collection utilized structured questionnaires designed to address the research questions. Statistical analysis, including frequency tables, descriptive statistics, and correlation and regression analyses using SPSS V26.0, was conducted to analyze the data. Key findings from the study revealed a significant prevalence of mental health problems among adolescents, with 54.3% experiencing symptoms of depression and 16.5% reporting high levels of stress. The findings also reported bullying at school by teachers, parents, and friends, high expectations from the community, and lack of support as the main forms of neglect experienced by adolescents in Mathare sub-county. Specifically, 26.4% of adolescents reported feelings of sadness, while 38.8% reported feeling worried or anxious as dominant mental health problems. These findings highlight the complex interplay between parental neglect and various mental health challenges faced by adolescents in the study area. The implications of these findings are substantial. They underscore the critical need for tailored interventions, including strengthening parental support programs and enhancing school-based mental health services within Mathare sub-county. Additionally, community-wide awareness campaigns are crucial to educate stakeholders about the detrimental effects of parental neglect on adolescent mental health and to advocate for supportive environments. In conclusion, addressing parental neglect and improving mental health services are essential steps towards alleviating the burden of mental health problems among adolescents in Mathare sub-county. The study recommends that future studies focus on longitudinal research and the development of culturally sensitive interventions to further enhance outcomes for adolescents in similar settings.