SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE EMOTIONAL DYSREGULATION AMONG YOUTH IN SELECTED REHABILITATION CENTRES IN KIAMBU COUNTY, KENYA
Abstract
Purpose of the Study: The study investigated the socio-demographic factors influencing emotional dysregulation among young adults with substance use disorder (SUD) in selected rehabilitation centres in Kiambu County, Kenya.
Problem Statement: Despite the availability of rehabilitation services, relapse rates among youth with SUD remain high. Emotional dysregulation is a major driver of relapse, yet most rehabilitation programs focus on detoxification, peer support, and counseling while overlooking structured interventions for managing emotional instability. International evidence highlights the influence of socio-demographic variables such as age, gender, education, and social support on emotional regulation, but limited research has examined these factors within Kenyan rehabilitation settings.
Methodology: A quasi-experimental design was adopted, involving 108 inpatients aged 18–35 years across four rehabilitation centres. A sample of 68 participants was purposively and randomly assigned into experimental and control groups. Data were collected using standardized self-report tools, including the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS-16), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), and the Brief Substance Craving Scale (BSCS). Data analysis employed chi-square tests, Pearson correlations, regression analysis, ANOVA, paired t-tests, and effect size calculations.
Results: Findings revealed that 89.8% of participants exhibited some level of emotional dysregulation, with 51.9% presenting moderate and 14.8% severe levels. Socio-demographic factors including age, gender, education, and family structure, were significantly associated with emotional dysregulation and influenced vulnerability to relapse. Difficulties with impulse control, emotional awareness, and coping strategies were particularly evident.
Conclusion: The study concludes that emotional dysregulation remains pervasive among youth with SUD in Kiambu County, with socio-demographic characteristics shaping its severity and impact on recovery outcomes.
Recommendations: The study recommends that rehabilitation programs integrate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) while tailoring interventions to socio-demographic realities to strengthen coping skills, reduce cravings, and improve long-term recovery. Policymakers should prioritize evidence-based models like DBT and expand professional training to enhance treatment effectiveness.
Keywords: Emotional dysregulation, socio-demographic factors, substance use disorder, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Kenya, youth, rehabilitation
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