The Influence of Sociodemographic Factors on Anti-social Behavior among Children: A Case of Bobaracho Area, Nyaribari Chache, Kenya

Abstract

Background: Antisocial behaviour among children has become a growing concern, often linked to various family and sociodemographic factors. This study aims to investigate the influence of these sociodemographic variables on children's antisocial behaviour in the Bobaracho area of Kisii County, Kenya. Methodology: A descriptive survey approach was employed, targeting a population of 200 students. A stratified sampling method was used to select a sample of 150 children aged 14-20 years. The Objective: To find out the association of sociodemographic factors with the anti-social behaviors’ children from Bobaracho area, Nyaribari Chache, Kenya. Null Hypothesis: There is no association in sociodemographic factors and antisocial behavior among children in Bobaracho area. The Aim: To investigate the influence of sociodemographic variables on children's antisocial behaviour. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and qualitative interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 20, while qualitative responses were categorized thematically. Findings: The analysis revealed significant factors influencing antisocial behaviour, including early parenting practices, media exposure, inadequate counselling, family separation, and lack of parental care. Notably, family conflict and parents' disciplinary responses were also critical. Key statistics indicated only 95.3% children responded. The gathered data revealed poor parenting (29%), media influence (7.7%), inadequate counseling (14%), broken homes (14.7%), peer influence (11.9%) and drug abuse (23%) influenced anti-social behavior. Additionally, the study showed that children's anti-social behavior was influenced by family conflict, parents' responses to their children's activities, and the discipline applied or not applied. Conclusion: The study suggests that in addition to receiving education on effective parenting, parents, and guardians should be encouraged to monitor their children’s behavior, adjust household conditions to promote healthy child development, and monitor their children’s behavior. School heads who report to the board of management ought to consult specialists when providing advice and counseling.