Influence of social factors on children’s deviant behaviour among widows in Kibera sub-county, Nairobi county

Abstract

The study investigates the influence of social factors on children’s deviant behaviour among widows in Kibera Sub-County, Nairobi County, where 35% of children are reported to exhibit deviant behaviours, including substance abuse, delinquency and risky sexual activities. These behaviors are often linked to emotional distress and a lack of guidance due to the absence of one or both parents, with widows primarily responsible for raising their children. This study aimed to examine the influence of social factors on children's deviant behavior among widows in Kibera Sub-County, Nairobi County. The specific objectives included investigating the impact of social support, social structures and social status on children's deviant behavior, as well as proposing intervention strategies to address the issue. The Cognitive Theory of Anxiety was used as the guiding framework for the study. A descriptive research design was employed, targeting widows in Kibera Sub-County. The sample consisted of 384 widows, selected using stratified sampling. Primary data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires, with a pre-test survey conducted in neighboring Dagoretti Sub-County to assess the validity and reliability of the instrument. The results also indicated an inverse and significant relationship between social support and children’s deviant behavior (β=-0.098, p=0.027), social structures and children’s deviant behavior (β=-0.325, p=0.003), and social status and children’s deviant behavior (β=-0.218, p=0.001). These findings suggest that stronger social support, better social structures and higher social status contribute to reducing deviant behaviors in children. In addition, social structures play a significant role in shaping children’s deviant behavior among widows in Kibera. Cultural norms, familial influence and socioeconomic factors are key in forming social identities that affect behavior. Improved social structures can help reduce deviant behavior, while inadequate structures may worsen the problem. Additionally, social class affects access to resources and economic opportunities for widows and their children. The study recommends that community leaders and organizations create inclusive programs that target widows and their children to reduce stigmatization, enhance community support and improve widows’ socio-economic status. Community programs should be culturally sensitive and foster trust and participation.