Contribution of Peer Counseling to Student Behavior Change in Secondary Schools in Maara Sub County, Kenya

Abstract

Peer counseling has popularly been accepted as an important contributor of behavior change among learners in learning institutions. Peer counseling utilizes role- playing and modeling to change behavior. The study assessed the contribution of peer counseling skills like mentoring, role modeling and academic tutoring in student behavior change in Maara sub County Kenya. The study employed descriptive survey research design. Stratified and purposive sampling technique methods were used to come up with a sample size. Data was collected by use of questionnaires for the students and peer counselors and an interview schedule for teacher counsellors. Descriptive statistics was used for data analysis.  The study established that peer counselors are important in mentoring other students as they address issues related to  the youth.  Most peer counselors are academically above average making them effective academic tutors.  Peers counselors are further more established in many schools giving them the opportunity to model good behavior.  The study recommends that peer counselors require adequate orientation on their roles like basic counseling skills.

Keywords: Peer, Peer Counseling, Students behavior, Secondary School