Relationship between socio-economic class and the level of Posttraumatic stress disorder resulting from the 2007/2008 post Election violence among primary school pupils in Kibera and Kayole settlements, Nairobi

Abstract

This study sought to determine whether there was any relationship between socio-economic class and the level of posttraumatic stress disorder resulting from the post election violence among primary school children in Kenya. The target population included all the standard seven pupils in six primary schools in Kibera and Kayole settlements. A proportionate random sample of 164 pupils in each location was selected. Three instruments were used. They were: Personal Experiences During Post Election Violence, Psychological Stability Scale, and Post Traumatic Experience Psychological Scale. The results showed that there was no significant difference between pupils of different socioeconomic status in levels of PTSD. It is recommended that children from all levels of socioeconomic status require post-violence services appropriate to their age, the scope and nature of the disaster, and their immediate circumstances. They should be provided with enhanced parent-teacher communications and there be available school psychologists and counselors trained in family intervention within the school setting. These are basic requirements for successful intervention and treatment of childhood posttraumatic stress disorder. The establishment of school-based programs from early childhood onward that teach conflict resolution, emotional literacy, and anger management skills is also desirable.