RESILIENCE AND VICARIOUS TRAUMATISATION AMONG COUNSELING PSYCHOLOGY STUDENT INTERNS IN SELECTED MENTAL HOSPITALS IN NAIROBI COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

This study investigated resilience and vicarious traumatisation levels among psychology student interns in selected mental hospitals in Nairobi County, Kenya. It was guided by two objectives: (i) to assess the levels of resilience among counselling psychology student interns in selected mental hospitals in Nairobi City County and (ii) to establish the levels of vicarious trauma among counselling psycho;ogy stuent interns in selected mental hospitals in Nairobi City County. Further, the study examined the relationship between resilience and vicarious traumatisation. While studies have indicated the potential for vicarious trauma among counselling psychology interns, limited research exists on specific levels of resilience in this population and, in particular, in Nairobi City County. The theory of resilience and constructivist self-development theory formed the theoretical framework. The researchers used a quantitative research approach and employed a descriptive and correlational research design to examine the phenomenon under study. The target population for this research comprised counselling psychology student interns undertaking diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate studies who have initiated their field practicums in public mental hospitals in Nairobi County, Kenya. To achieve a sample size of 178 respondents, the researchers used a stratified sampling technique and the Yamane 1967 formula. Data was generated through survey questionnaires. Both descriptive (mean, mode, median, range, and standard deviation) and inferential (T-test and Pearson correlation statistics) statistics were used to analyse the data, which was presented as tables, pie charts, and bar graphs. Study findings indicate that psychology student interns had a high level of resilience despite their traumatic experiences. They were able to deal with trauma-related effects in healthy ways. Their capabilities to withstand the impact of vicarious trauma did not depend on gender. The findings inform recommendations to the hospital administrations, training institutions, and the Ministry of Health for training and support programs designed to enhance resilience and mitigate the effects of vicarious trauma. Ultimately, this research contributes to the broader goal of ensuring the health and well-being of healthcare workers.