RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BEHAVIORAL FUNCTIONING AND SUBSTANCE USE PATTERNS AMONG STREET BOYS IN A KENYAN REHABILITATION CENTRE
Abstract
Purpose of Study: This study assessed behavioral functioning patterns and examined their relationship with substance use patterns among street boys at Joseph Kang'ethe Rehabilitation Centre, Kibera.
Methodology: The study adopted an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, applying census sampling to enrol all 80 street boys’ resident at the centre for the quantitative phase, followed by purposive sampling of participants for interviews. Behavioral functioning was measured using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), covering emotional symptoms, conduct problems, hyperactivity, peer relationship difficulties, and prosocial behavior, while substance involvement was assessed using the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST).
Result: Slightly over half of participants (52.0%) fell within the normal behavioral functioning range, 34.7% scored within a borderline range warranting monitoring, and 13.3% scored within a clinical or abnormal range. A statistically significant relationship was established between substance use and behavioral functioning (χ²=307.694, p=0.027). Qualitative narratives showed boys who had discontinued substance use described improved self-control, emotional stability, and cooperation with peers, while those still struggling described guilt, agitation, and difficulty regulating their emotions.
Conclusion: The study concludes that behavioral functioning and substance use are closely interlinked among rehabilitating street boys, and that reductions in substance use correspond with measurable behavioral gains.
Recommendation: It recommends routine behavioral screening using standardized tools, individualized behavioral intervention plans, and continued integration of counseling, mentorship, and spiritual support within rehabilitation programming.
Keywords: Behavioral functioning, Substance use, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, Street Children, Rehabilitation centre, Urban slum
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