Feasibility of psychosocial intervention for children exposed to ethnic conflict in Kenya

Background: Although it is well established that armed conflict (political and ethnic violence) impacts adversely on children’s mental health, psychosocial interventions for affected children have received little research... [ view full abstract ]

Background: Although it is well established that armed conflict (political and ethnic violence) impacts adversely on children’s mental health, psychosocial interventions for affected children have received little research attention. Whereas there are some studies conducted on young people’s mental health needs, there is limited evidence on effective interventions available for children affected in post- conflict areas.
Objectives: This study aims to contribute to the body of knowledge of effective interventions by assessing the feasibility of an adapted psychosocial intervention for children exposed to ethnic violence.
Methods: This research will comprise two studies; Study 1: Focus groups of community stakeholders to establish their views on children’s mental health needs and culturally acceptable interventions. Study 2: To deliver the trauma-focused intervention, Writing for Recovery taking into consideration community views.
Results: Preliminary results from four focus groups (young people, parents, teachers and other professionals) indicate that lack of resources (funding, personnel), poor collaboration (government, community), impaired parenting, socio-economic challenges and limited knowledge on child mental health are some of the factors affecting interventions. These factors will be taken into consideration in planning and delivering the intervention.
Conclusions: Stakeholders’ views are important in informing the planning, delivery and evaluation of interventions. A clear therapeutic framework, evidence-base and sociocultural adaptation are likely to be important factors if such interventions are to be sustained.
Implications: The study contributes to the body of literature of evidence-based psychosocial interventions for children in post-conflict settings. The findings will be useful for policy makers and other stakeholders in using the model to help children in traumatized communities in similar situations.
Keywords: Feasibility, psychosocial interventions, child mental health, ethnic violence