EFFECT OF THERAPIST SELF-DISCLOSURE ON DEPRESSION MANAGEMENT AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN KENYA
Abstract
Purpose of Study: This study examined the effect of therapist self-disclosure on depression management among university students, with attention to the relational dynamics created through reciprocal sharing.
Problem Statement: Depression is a growing mental health concern among university students in Kenya, with disclosure practices emerging as crucial strategies for effective management.
Methodology: Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 321 students through structured questionnaires and interview guide, and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression techniques.
Result: Most respondents had not experienced therapist self-disclosure, indicating that therapists largely maintained professional boundaries, with limited disclosures mainly involving professional experiences (16.1%) and fewer personal or emotional disclosures (4.1%). Nonetheless, therapist self-disclosure showed a modest but statistically significant positive influence on depression management (r = 0.327, p < 0.01; β = 0.135, p = 0.048).
Recommendations: The study recommends counselor training and peer counseling to strengthen depression management and student mental health.
Keywords: therapist disclosure, self-disclosure, reciprocal sharing, depression management, university students, Kenya
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