Exploring the Nexus between Family Socioeconomic Status and Deviant Behaviour: A Study of Secondary School Students in Murang’a East Sub-County

Abstract

Background: There is a complex and multifaceted relationship between family socioeconomic status and deviant behaviour among secondary school students in Murang’a East Sub County. The purpose of the study was to investigate this relationship. The primary aim was to reveal contributing links and suggest best practices for interventions aimed at curbing deviant behaviour among secondary school students. Materials and Methods: A mixed method approach collected data using self-administered questionnaires and conducted interviews from 15 Principals, 15 Guidance and Counselling Coordinators, and 390 students randomly sampled from 15 secondary schools. The study area encompassed 33 Principals, 33 Guidance and Counselling Coordinators, and 9,484 students across 33 schools. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, and multiple regression analysis in SPSS 25. Results were presented in tables, charts, and bar graphs. Results: The study revealed that there is a significant positive correlation between family socioeconomic status and deviant behavior, with students from higher socioeconomic backgrounds exhibiting greater tendencies toward deviant behaviours compared to those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Additionally, the influence of other factors like peer dynamics, school environment, and individual traits on deviant behaviour was identified. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study underscores the pivotal contribution of family socioeconomic status to deviant behaviour among secondary school students. Recommendation: The study recommends that interventions addressing deviant behaviour should consider addressing socioeconomic status. The study’s distinctiveness lies in its emphasis on Kenyan secondary school students and its quantitative investigation of the link between family socioeconomic status and deviant behaviour. These findings provide valuable insights for shaping interventions targeting deviant behaviour not just in Kenya, but also in other developing nations.