The Influence of Family Dynamics and Substance Abuse Among Students in Private Universities in Kenya: A Case of St Paul University

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of family dynamics on substance abuse among students in private universities in Kenya. A case of St Paul University. This research was guided by the following specific objectives; to explore the influence of parental communication patterns, family structure and parental supervision substance among students in private universities in Kenya. This research is significant to policymakers, management of St Paul University, and future researchers. The study adopted a descriptive research design. The target population for this study was 1400 students at St Paul University in first, second, third and final year. The study sampled size of 311 respondents using Yamane’s formula which was done using simple random sampling as the sampling design. Data was collected through questionnaire, which were distributed to the respondents. To ensure the validity and reliability of the questionnaire, a pilot study was done. Data was analysed using both qualitative methods and later presented through tables, bar graphs, and pie charts. The correlation findings indicated that there is a positive and statistically significant correlation between drug abuse and all the independent variables. Specifically, substance abuse is positively correlated with parental communication patterns (r = 0.297, p = 0.000), family structure (r = 0.437, p = 0.000), and parental supervision (r = 0.409, p = 0.000). The highest correlation is between substance abuse and family structure, a weaker but significant correlation between parental communication patterns. The findings revealed that the patterns of communication among parents’ respondents are generally low in all the aspects measured. The mean of the statement regarding the openness with parents in discussing drug use is 2.23 (SD = 1.174), which means that they do not discuss this issue openly. On the same note, the comfort of discussing personal struggles with parents is low with a mean of 2.08 (SD = 0.843) indicating that a significant number of the respondents do not feel comfortable talking openly. The well-established parental roles demonstrate a somewhat greater mean of 2.37 (SD = 1.129), yet they still represent a rather weak framework. The standard deviation scores of 0.762 to 1.145 show that there is moderate variation in responses. The patterns of communication between parents and their children such as openness to discuss drug use, emotional support and encouragement towards healthy choices had low mean scores of between 2.08 and 2.46 indicating weak communication patterns. It is also important to strengthen family structure. The family must develop clear roles and responsibilities of every member to ensure stability, cohesion and accountability. Promoting a good family relationship, collective decision-making, and belongingness can generate a positive environment that will deter risky behaviour such as drugs. Such interventions may make adolescents feel more at ease with their families and supported in their everyday life.

Key words: Family Communication, Family Structure Drugs and Substance Abuse, Private Universities

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/17-5-08

Publication date: May 30^th 2026