African Child Psychology is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation Strategies for Psychological Assessment Instruments in Senegalese Populations
Psychological assessment tools are designed to measure mental health conditions across diverse populations. In Africa, cultural sensitivity is crucial for accurate interpretation of these assessments. This mixed-methods study involves a cross-cultural adaptation process using surveys, interviews, and focus groups with participants from various socio-economic backgrounds in Senegal. A key finding is the need for culturally tailored questions to mitigate misinterpretations of certain assessment items by local respondents. The proportion of successful adaptations was 75% across all tested instruments. The study demonstrates that careful adaptation can significantly improve the reliability and validity of psychological assessments in diverse cultural settings. Healthcare providers should prioritise the use of culturally adapted tools for mental health evaluations, alongside ongoing research to refine these adaptations further. cross-cultural adaptation, psychological assessment, Senegal, African child psychology
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Factors Shaping Learning Outcomes in Multigrade Classrooms within Moroccan Educational Settings
Multigrade classrooms are prevalent in Moroccan educational settings, where students of different ages share a teacher for multiple subjects within one classroom space. These arrangements present unique challenges and opportunities for learning outcomes. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a survey of teachers (n=50) and students (n=120), as well as focus group discussions with parents. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. Students in multigrade classrooms reported higher levels of engagement when they perceived their teacher as supportive and approachable, compared to those who did not feel this way (65% vs. 40%). The psychosocial environment within multigrade classrooms significantly impacts student learning outcomes. Interventions aimed at strengthening the teacher-student relationship and fostering a supportive classroom culture should be prioritised in Moroccan educational settings.
Public Sector Stressors and Coping Mechanisms in South Africa
Public sector workers in South Africa are exposed to unique stressors such as budget constraints, political instability, and accountability pressures. A mixed-methods approach involving surveys and in-depth interviews was employed to gather data from 500 public sector workers across various departments. Public sector employees reported significantly higher levels of job-related stress compared to private sector colleagues, with themes including financial insecurity and political interference impacting their well-being. The study underscores the need for comprehensive support programmes in the public sector that address both individual and organisational factors contributing to stress. Implementing employee assistance programmes and promoting work-life balance strategies can mitigate adverse mental health effects among public sector staff. Public Sector, Stressors, Coping Mechanisms, Occupational Psychology, South Africa
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender Equality Leadership Workshops Among Young Business Owners in Kenya
Gender inequality persists among young business owners in Kenya, hindering their full potential in leadership roles. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining pre- and post-workshop surveys with qualitative interviews among 150 participants aged 25-35 years. Participants demonstrated an average 20% improvement in gender equality attitudes after the workshops, particularly in perceived fairness in leadership roles. The workshops significantly enhanced young entrepreneurs' understanding of gender dynamics and their commitment to promoting equal opportunities in business environments. Implement mandatory gender sensitivity training in entrepreneurship programmes and allocate resources for ongoing capacity-building initiatives. gender equality, workshop effectiveness, young entrepreneurs, Kenya, leadership
Digital Literacy Programmes and Job Acquisition Among Mumbai Slum Youth in South Sudan
Digital literacy programmes have gained prominence as a tool for empowering youth in various socioeconomic contexts. In Mumbai slums of India, these programmes are designed to enhance digital skills and prepare young people for employment opportunities. This study extends this concept to similar settings in South Sudan where the population is grappling with significant socio-economic challenges. This survey research employs structured questionnaires distributed among participants aged 15-24 years from both Mumbai slums and corresponding areas in South Sudan. Data collection covers a period of six months, with specific attention to digital literacy proficiency levels and job acquisition success rates. A notable finding is the higher proportion (38%) of youth who have successfully acquired jobs using their enhanced digital skills compared to those without such programmes (20%). This suggests that digital literacy programmes can significantly boost employment opportunities in challenging socio-economic environments. The findings underscore the potential of digital literacy initiatives as a viable strategy for improving job acquisition rates among marginalized youth. Future research should focus on replicating these results and evaluating longer-term impacts. Based on this study, it is recommended that governments and non-governmental organizations invest in comprehensive digital literacy programmes tailored to local needs, especially in regions facing significant socio-economic challenges.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Prejudice Mitigation Strategies in Diverse South African Communities
Prejudice in diverse South African communities remains a significant social issue, affecting intergroup relations and societal cohesion. An ethnographic study was conducted involving participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and focus groups with individuals from diverse communities. Data analysis focused on thematic content. Participants reported using a variety of strategies including education, community engagement, and dialogue to reduce prejudice. For instance, 60% utilised educational programmes targeting intergroup understanding. Community-led initiatives play a crucial role in fostering mutual respect and reducing prejudice among diverse South Africans. Integrating community-based interventions into existing social policies could enhance the effectiveness of prejudice reduction efforts.
Comparative Psychological Insights in Malagasy Societies
Comparative Psychology studies in Madagascar have highlighted unique cultural dynamics influencing child development and social behaviour. Qualitative interviews were conducted with a sample of 50 parents and educators from various regions in Madagascar. Data was analysed using thematic analysis for thematic extraction and interpretation. A key theme emerging from the data is the strong emphasis on communal living, which significantly influences child socialization practices across all regions studied. The findings suggest that Malagasy societies exhibit a cohesive approach to parenting, characterized by collective responsibility and close-knit family bonds. Future research could explore how these communal values impact educational systems and psychological interventions in Madagascar.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
A Framework for Exploring Educational Robotics on Science Achievement in Ugandan Primary Schools
Educational robotics has gained traction as an innovative teaching method in recent years, particularly for enhancing science education. This study will not involve empirical results but aims to conceptualize existing literature and suggest areas for further investigation through a theoretical lens. The framework developed here provides a solid foundation for understanding and improving educational robotics programmes in Uganda’s primary education system. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies examining long-term impacts of educational robotics and exploring how to optimise programme delivery across different socio-economic backgrounds.
Challenges and Opportunities in Psychology within Post-Conflict Chad
Post-conflict Chad faces significant psychological challenges as a result of civil unrest and displacement. A mixed methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative survey data to assess community resilience and psychological needs. Community surveys revealed that over 40% of respondents experienced symptoms consistent with PTSD, while qualitative interviews highlighted the need for culturally tailored interventions. Psychological services in Chad are under-resourced but essential for societal recovery; a focus on trauma-informed care and community engagement is recommended. Investment in psychological training programmes and infrastructure development should be prioritised, with a special emphasis on integrating traditional healing practices into modern mental health approaches.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Youth in Africa have gained increasing attention within psychology research due to their demographic significance and developmental challenges. Data was collected through a mixed-methods approach including surveys, interviews with psychologists, and secondary data analysis from existing studies. A comparative framework was used to analyse the research findings. The study identified a significant disparity in the conceptualization of youth development between psychology departments, which often leads to inconsistent interventions targeting youth needs. This paper highlights the need for standardising youth psychology education and practice across Nigerian academic institutions. We recommend establishing a national curriculum framework for youth psychology that integrates best practices from different disciplines and addresses regional disparities. Youth Psychology, Nigeria, Comparative Study
Digital Security and Privacy in Nigerian Informal Markets
Digital security and privacy issues in Nigerian informal markets have become a significant concern for internet users, driven by increasing cyber threats such as fraud, identity theft, and malware. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys was employed to gather data from 150 participants across 10 informal markets in Nigeria. Focus groups were also conducted to understand broader community perceptions. Participants reported experiencing a high level of digital security threats, particularly through phishing and fraudulent emails (78%), followed by malware attacks (62%). The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted policy interventions that balance user privacy with market operational requirements, aiming to reduce cyber risks while maintaining market viability. Policy recommendations include mandatory cybersecurity training for informal market operators and the implementation of robust data protection standards. Additionally, a collaborative framework between government agencies and private sector entities should be established to monitor and mitigate security threats effectively.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Sustainable Development Indicators in Namibian Psychology
Sustainable development has gained significant attention in global policy frameworks, including those addressing child psychology and well-being. This brief will employ a systematic review approach, synthesizing existing literature on child psychology in Namibia with contemporary theories of sustainable development. A critical theme emerging from the literature is the interplay between environmental stressors and mental health outcomes among children in Namibian communities. The sociopsychological framework suggests that integrating psychological assessments into broader sustainability initiatives can lead to more holistic approaches to child welfare. Policy recommendations include incorporating psychosocial support services within existing community development programmes and enhancing teacher training on mental health issues related to environmental stressors. Sustainable Development, Namibia, Psychology, Child Welfare, Sociopsychological Framework
The Kasai Depression Rehabilitation Programme's Impact on Adolescent Mental Health in DRC
The Kasai Depression Rehabilitation Programme (KDRP) is a psychological intervention designed to address depression in adolescents living in conflict-affected areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The programme aims to improve mental health outcomes through structured psychotherapy sessions. The study employed qualitative methods to gather data through interviews with adolescents who participated in KDRP and their caregivers. Data analysis focused on thematic content to identify patterns of change and challenges observed during the programme’s implementation. The KDRP demonstrated promising initial outcomes for adolescents' mental well-being, highlighting the need for further research to validate these results across diverse contexts. Future studies should explore long-term impacts of such interventions and consider scalability issues in resource-limited settings. Policy makers may also benefit from adopting community-based models that integrate KDRP elements into existing health systems.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community-Based Interventions in Trauma and Resilience
Community-based interventions have become a significant approach in addressing trauma and promoting resilience among vulnerable populations, particularly children affected by conflict. The study synthesizes existing literature from multiple sources including published reports, academic journals, and NGO communications to evaluate the efficacy of these interventions. A key finding is that community-based programmes incorporating traditional healing practices saw a significant improvement in children's mental health outcomes, with over 60% reporting reduced symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The reviewed interventions highlight the importance of integrating local cultural elements into trauma response strategies to enhance their effectiveness. Future research should prioritise longitudinal studies and comparative evaluations to further validate these findings, while practitioners should consider culturally sensitive implementation models.
Gender Dynamics in Sub-Saharan African Psychology
Gender dynamics in psychology are increasingly recognised as crucial for understanding societal structures and individual development across Sub-Saharan Africa. In Tanzania, these dynamics intersect with broader cultural, economic, and political contexts, influencing policy and practice. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to explore gender perceptions and experiences among psychologists and the general population. Key findings include a significant disparity in psychological treatment preferences between males and females, with women more likely to seek therapy for mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. The analysis reveals that current policy frameworks often overlook these gender-specific disparities, leading to an imbalance in service provision. This necessitates targeted interventions aimed at increasing access and inclusivity. Policy recommendations include the development of culturally sensitive training programmes for psychologists, the implementation of gender-sensitive mental health curricula in schools, and the promotion of public awareness campaigns focusing on gender equality in psychological care.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community-Based Water Supply and Nutrition Interventions in Sierra Leonean Villages
Community-based water supply projects have been implemented in Sierra Leonean villages to address malnutrition among children under five years old. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including baseline and endline surveys, qualitative interviews, and anthropometric measurements among children under five years old in selected villages. Children who participated in the feeding programme showed a statistically significant decrease in stunting rates by 20% compared to those not participating, with an average weight gain of 1.5 kg over six months. The findings suggest that integrated community water supply and nutrition interventions can effectively reduce malnutrition among young children in Sierra Leonean villages. Further research should be conducted on the long-term effects of these interventions, with a focus on sustainability and scalability.
Youth Participation in African Psychology
Youth participation in African psychology has received increasing attention due to its transformative potential for addressing developmental challenges and promoting holistic well-being. The research employed an in-depth qualitative approach involving participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis among young people aged 15-24 years who were engaged in various forms of mental health support programmes. Participants highlighted the importance of culturally relevant interventions that incorporate traditional healing practices alongside Western psychological approaches. The study identified a significant trend towards integrating youth voices into decision-making processes within community-based mental health initiatives, with at least 70% of these initiatives involving young people as key stakeholders. The findings underscore the necessity for fostering collaborative models where youth are actively involved in shaping and implementing psychological services tailored to their needs and contexts. This study contributes by providing a nuanced understanding of youth participation dynamics within African psychology, particularly in Uganda. Policy makers should prioritise inclusive frameworks that encourage young people's active involvement in the development and delivery of mental health services. Moreover, educational institutions must integrate comprehensive curricula on psychosocial well-being to equip future generations with essential knowledge and skills.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Gender-Based Violence Support Centers within Nairobi Police Stations
Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive issue in Nairobi, Kenya, affecting women disproportionately. The analysis draws on qualitative data from interviews with GBV survivors and police officers to evaluate the support centers' functionality and impact. The analysis indicates that while Gender-Based Violence Support Centers play an important role in supporting survivors, improvements are needed in their operational efficiency and coordination with other support services. Enhanced training for police officers on GBV protocols and increased collaboration between the centers and legal aid organizations are recommended to improve service delivery.
Mental Health Programmes in Nairobi High Schools
Anxiety disorders are prevalent among high school students in Nairobi, Kenya, highlighting a need for effective mental health programmes. A qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews with students and teachers from selected Nairobi high schools to assess programme effectiveness and student experiences. Findings indicate that a specific programme led to significant reductions in anxiety scores, with over 40% of participants reporting an improvement in their mental health status after participation. The study underscores the potential of school-based interventions in addressing anxiety disorders among high school students and recommends scaling up successful programmes. Recommendation for policymakers to integrate comprehensive mental health education into school curriculums and support implementation of evidence-based programmes. Anxiety Disorders, High School Students, Mental Health Programmes, Nairobi Schools
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
School-Based Mental Health Programmes' Impact on Anxiety Disorders Among High School Students in Nairobi
Anxiety disorders are prevalent among high school students in Nairobi, Kenya, with significant negative impacts on academic performance and mental health. A mixed methods design was employed, incorporating both quantitative survey data collection and qualitative semi-structured interviews to comprehensively assess programme impact. The survey revealed a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.05) in overall anxiety levels among participants following the intervention compared to pre-intervention scores. School-based mental health programmes show promise in mitigating anxiety disorders among high school students in Nairobi, with substantial improvements reported post-programme implementation. Further research should explore long-term effects and scalability of these interventions across different socio-economic backgrounds.
Cultural Adaptation Models for Psychological Assessment in African Populations
Cultural diversity within African populations necessitates the development of culturally adapted psychological assessment tools to ensure more accurate and equitable mental health evaluations. A comprehensive review of existing cultural adaptation methodologies will be conducted alongside qualitative interviews with experts to inform the development process. The proposed framework aims to enhance the validity and relevance of psychological assessments across diverse African populations by addressing cultural nuances effectively. Developers and policymakers should prioritise stakeholder engagement, including input from local communities and experts, in the adaptation process.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Quality Assurance Mechanisms in Mobile Health Insurance Services within Kenyan Informal Settlements
Mobile health insurance services have become increasingly prevalent in developing countries to address healthcare access challenges. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews was employed among 500 participants from eight selected informal settlements in Nairobi. Findings highlight a significant gap (42%) in the accuracy of health insurance eligibility determination by mobile apps, prompting immediate need for service improvements. Quality assurance mechanisms are critical for enhancing trust and efficacy of mobile health insurance services, particularly in underserved communities. Immediate investment in data validation processes and user feedback loops is recommended to improve the reliability of mobile health insurance services.