Effects of family separation on the academic performance of primary school pupils’ in Kihumbu–ini zone, Kihumbu–ini Division, Gatanga District, Murang’a county, Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of this research project is to establish the effects of family separation on the academic performance of primary school pupils in Kihumbu-ini Zone, Kihumbu-ini Division, Gatanga District, Murang’a County, Kenya. The zone has 23 public primary schools and 13 private schools. The research employs the theory of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs which states that physiological needs such as food, shelter, clothing, love, care and protection should be met before an individual seeks satisfaction of other needs such as self esteem, security, education and so on. The researcher has adopted the descriptive survey design since the study is on effects of family separation hence analysis will be done in explanations. Non probability sampling method was used especially convenience sampling as the researcher could not get enough time to visit all the schools in this zone. To collect the required information, the researcher used questionnaires for head teachers and teachers as well as interview schedules for children. The questions used in both the questionnaires and interview schedules were close ended. Descriptive survey was used to analyze the collected data. Pie charts, frequency distribution tables and bar graphs were used to analyze the data collected. The researcher intended to compare the academic performance of children from separated families with that of children from cooperative families. From the findings the researcher gave the relevant recommendations to families, schools, local leaders and the public. The findings will be an essential tool to teachers who will use them to guide and counsel the affected children to alleviate their sufferings. The local leaders could also apply the findings in guiding couples to avoid separation for the sake of their children’s well being.