Correlation between Exposure to Domestic Violence and the Academic Performance of Pupils in Kenyan Public Primary Schools

Abstract

Domestic violence poses a significant risk to pupils' academic performance, particularly in informal settlements, jeopardizing their chances of attaining their academic potential and becoming useful members of the community.  This study investigates the relationship between exposure to domestic violence and academic performance among pupils in public primary schools in informal settlements, Nairobi County, Kenya.. The research, guided by Family Stress Theory, employed a descriptive design and targeted a population of 61,034 pupils. The sample size of 390 participants was determined using Krejcie and Morgan's formula, selected through purposive sampling, focusing on sub-counties with informal settlements, schools enrolling students from these areas, and pupils in classes 4, 5, and 6. Research instruments included an adapted Violence Exposure Scale for Children-Revised to measure domestic violence exposure and a record sheet for academic achievement. A pilot study with 42 pupils was conducted to ensure instrument validity and reliability, yielding a reliable coefficient of α=0.785 for the Exposure to Domestic Violence Scale. Data collection involved selecting participants, distributing questionnaires while ensuring data confidentiality. Data was coded, entered, and cleaned for analysis using IBM SPSS version 21. Descriptive statistics, such as percentages and frequencies, analyzed demographic data. Inferential statistics, including Pearson's correlation, were employed to examine the relationships between independent and dependent variables. Findings revealed a statistically significant, albeit weak, negative association between domestic violence exposure and academic performance. Pupils with higher exposure exhibited lower academic performance, highlighting the disruptive impact of domestic violence. The study recommends proactive measures, such as parental sensitization programs, to mitigate domestic violence's impact on academic performance, fostering an environment that supports academic success and overall well-being for pupils.