EFFECTS OF DIVORCE ON ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOLS PUPILS IN KANGETA DIVISION, KENYA

Abstract

Divorce is dissolution of a marriage relationship. Divorce jeopardizes children emotionally, psychologically and intellectually. It affects the pupils’ psychological well- being, as they go through adjustment of living without one parent. Therefore, this study sought to investigate the effects of divorce on academic achievement among primary schools pupils in Kangeta Division, Kenya.  The study adapted a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study was 18,697, comprising of 398 teachers, 26 head teachers and 18,247 pupils from in the study area.  The sample size was 343 respondents, derived from 8 primary schools. Simple random sampling and purposive sampling methods were used to obtain the sample size. Three sets of questionnaires were employed as research instruments for data collection. Validity of the research instruments was improved through opinions and judgement of University experts. Reliability of the questionnaires was improved through a pilot study conducted in two primary schools in Maua Division. The reliability was estimated using Cronbach’s Alpha Coefficient and an average reliability coefficient 0.778 was obtained. Reliability for pupils’ questionnaire was 0.846, class teachers were 0.782 and head teachers were 0.707. Data was coded for analysis through a computer programme; the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. Data analysis was by descriptive and quantitative statistics where qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The study findings revealed that pupils from divorced homes were psychologically affected. Therefore, this affected their academic achievement as they were easily irritated, depressed, and lacked attention in class. The study established that primary school pupils from divorced homes are psychologically affected hence affecting their academic achievement. The study recommends that   Guidance and Counselling Services in primary schools should be encouraged to enhance positive psychological and social well-being with respect to academic achievement. The findings and recommendations should provide valuable reference for parents, teachers, school administrators, child psychologists and policy makers in education on effects of divorce on academic achievement among pupils from primary schools.