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Lived Experiences of Mothers of Children with Mental Illnesses: A Case Study of Mukuru Kwa Ruben Centre in Nairobi, Kenya

Authors: Omwamba, Esther Magara; Mbwayo, Anne Wanjiru; Kitonga, Daniel M;

Lived Experiences of Mothers of Children with Mental Illnesses: A Case Study of Mukuru Kwa Ruben Centre in Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

This study analyzed the experiences of mothers with children diagnosed with mental illnesses at the Mukuru Kwa Ruben Centre in Nairobi, Kenya. The study aimed to understand mothers' views on the causes of mental health disorders, their preferred treatment methods, and the coping strategies they employ. The study employs the social constructivism theoretical framework, utilizing the Health Belief Model (HBM) to examine health perceptions and beliefs, alongside the Family Systems Theory (FST) to explore the impact of family dynamics on caregiving. A qualitative phenomenological methodology was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with eight mothers of children experiencing mental health challenges, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit /Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD), foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FAS), and cerebral palsy(CP). The mothers were deliberately selected from those in attendance at the Centre. The data were collected in English and Kiswahili and then analyzed thematically. The findings indicate that mothers possess varying perspectives on mental illness, significantly influenced by their cultural and spiritual beliefs. Some individuals believe that mental health issues stem from supernatural influences, ancestral curses, or moral shortcomings. This notion influences their caregiving approach and the treatment options they select. Many mothers acknowledge the importance of professional mental health services, even though accessibility remains a challenge. These findings emphasize the need for culturally sensitive mental health interventions that integrate traditional beliefs with evidence-based practices, improve access to affordable professional care, and promote community education to address stigma and misconceptions. The research offers helpful suggestions for policymakers, mental health professionals, and support organizations to improve support systems for families affected by mental illnesses.

Keywords

Family Systems Theory, Children mental illnesses, Mothers lived experiences, caregivers' Health Belief Model

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
Green