Assessment of the Influence of Parenting on the Increase of Students’ Suicidal Tendencies in Selected Public Universities in Kenya

Abstract

Suicide is one of the leading causes of death globally, with students being the most affected. Parents and relatives play a crucial role in eradicating suicidal thoughts in students. However, less has been done on how parenting contributes to suicidal tendencies in students, hence this study. A social survey that targeted second-year students in public universities was employed. Five universities were selected using the convenience sampling technique, while the purposive sampling technique was employed to select the respondents. Data were then analyzed using SPSS and Microsoft Excel. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and graphs, charts, and tables were generated. The study reported that many parents interacted well with students, with most variables recording above 70%. On the parental level of involvement in students' lives, fewer parents (<36%) were reported to be involved always. On parental availability, a higher percentage (56%) was recorded to be available in their children's lives only when they become aware of suicidal intentions. Even though parents interact with and are involved well in students' lives, their availability when the students experience suicidal thoughts is wanting, hence an increase in completed suicide. Therefore, a strong association between parents and their children is recommended to monitor and identify earlier any unusual change in the behaviour of the students. This information could be useful to policymakers on how to improve mental health in learning institutions.