Prevalence of various forms of domestic violence and their effects on students classroom behaviours in Bungoma county, Kenya

Abstract

Introduction: There is an assumption that domestic violence only affected women. However, studies have shown that domestic violence has repercussions equally for children who witness it. Purpose: The study was set up to investigate the prevalence of domestic violence in Bungoma County, Kenya, and the influence on classroom behaviour of students in secondary schools. Methodology: Descriptive survey design was used on a target population of 576 students, 36 principles, and 36 guiding and counseling teachers, including 18 parents. The instruments used for data collection were open and closed-ended structured questionnaires for the students, an interview schedule for the principals and guiding and counseling teachers, and a focus group discussion guide for the parents. Results: The study established that domestic violence prevailed in society, and some students were victims while others were witnesses. Secondly, domestic violence manifested in the students’ classroom behaviours. Recommendations: The study recommended more sensitization of the public, creation of a workable hotline number to enable easier reporting and schools’ personnel to try and identify symptoms in the students who are victims for early rehabilitation.