FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER AMONG PARENTS OF PREGNANT TEENAGERS AT AFRICAN INLAND CHURCH IN WAMUNYU DISTRICT CHURCH COUNCIL, MACHAKOS COUNTY, KENYA
Abstract
Purpose of the Study: This study investigated factors associated with major depressive disorder among parents of pregnant teenagers at AIC Wamunyu District Church Council, Machakos County, Kenya.
Problem Statement: Parents of pregnant teenagers face heightened risk for major depressive disorder due to stigma and financial hardship. Research on their mental health remains scarce, particularly in faith-based communities.
Methodology: This cross-sectional study involved 108 parents of pregnant teenagers in Machakos County. Data were collected using a researcher-developed questionnaire. Chi-square tests and Pearson correlations examined associations between depression and socio-demographic variables.
Results: Depression was significantly associated with age (χ² = 63.057, p = .001), gender (χ² = 78.867, p < .001), education (χ² = 137.095, p < .001), employment (χ² = 85.543, p < .001), financial status (χ² = 104.457, p < .001), family structure (χ² = 91.200, p < .001), and residence (χ² = 97.152, p < .001). Employment status (r = -0.257, p = .008) and church leadership (r = -0.220, p = .024) correlated negatively with depression.
Conclusion: Demographic and socioeconomic factors significantly influence depression among parents of pregnant teenagers in faith-based communities. The psychological impact is shaped by parents' socioeconomic environment, requiring interventions addressing broader structural issues beyond individual mental health.
Recommendation: Policymakers should develop community-based mental health interventions incorporating faith-based support systems and economic empowerment programs for affected families.
Keywords: Depressive Disorder, Parents, Pregnant Teenagers, African Inland Church, Wamunyu District Church Council
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