UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ PERCEPTION ON THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL ECONOMIC STATUS ON VULNERABILITY TO RADICALIZATION IN KENYA: IMPLICATIONS FOR COUNSELLING
Abstract
Purpose of Study: This research aimed to investigate university students’ perceptions of the influence of family socioeconomic status on vulnerability to radicalization in Kenya and its implications for counseling interventions.
Statement of Problem: Radicalization and recruitment into violent extremist groups have become significant threats in Kenya and globally. University students are particularly vulnerable due to their developmental stage of identity exploration, which can be exacerbated by socioeconomic challenges.
Methodology: The study adopted a mixed-methods design targeting students, counselors, and peer counselors from two purposively selected public universities in Kenya. A sample of 644 respondents was determined using Yamane’s formula, and data were collected via questionnaires, interviews, and focus groups. Analysis utilized chi-square tests with SPSS version 23.0 and NVivo 12, achieving instrument reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.79).
Result: The study found a strong and significant influence of family socioeconomic status on vulnerability to radicalization. The chi-square test of independence (χ² (16) = 74.836, p < 0.05) revealed a significant association between family income levels and students’ perception of vulnerability to radicalization, with Cramer’s V = 0.471 indicating a strong effect size.
Conclusion: The study concluded that family socioeconomic status significantly affects students’ vulnerability to radicalization. Addressing this issue requires targeted counseling interventions to reduce susceptibility to extremist ideologies.
Recommendation: The study recommends implementing well-designed, family-focused counseling programs to decrease vulnerability to radicalization and enhance efforts to counter violent extremism
Keywords: Student’s perception, influence of social economic status, vulnerability to radicalization, implications for counselling
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