Influence of the Perpetrator–Victim Relationship in Sexual Violence Exposure on the Mental Well-Being of Young Adults in Kisauni Sub-County, Mombasa County, Kenya
Kellen Kiraithe, Patrick Asango and Mary Mutisya
The Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Kenya
Email: kellykiraithe1@gmail.com
Abstract: Sexual violence is a significant social and psychological concern that can adversely affect the mental well-being of young adults. This study examined the influence of the perpetrator–victim relationship in sexual violence exposure on the mental well-being of young adults in Kisauni Sub-County, Mombasa County, Kenya. The study was guided by Trauma Theory and the Ecological Model of Violence and adopted a mixed-methods approach using a convergent parallel design. The target population comprised 67,084 participants, including 67,077 young adults and seven key informants. Using Yamane’s formula, 156 young adults were sampled, while seven key informants were purposively selected. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS Version 30 through descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were thematically analysed. Findings indicated that the perpetrator–victim relationship was associated with the mental well-being of young adults exposed to sexual violence, particularly where perpetrators were trusted persons, intimate partners, or family members. Inferential analysis showed a strong and statistically significant relationship between the perpetrator–victim relationship and mental well-being (r = .648, p < .001). Regression analysis further showed a significant influence (β = .359, p < .001). The overall model explained 57.9% of the variation in mental well-being (R² = .579, p < .001). The study concludes that the perpetrator–victim relationship significantly affects young adults’ mental well-being following sexual violence exposure. The study recommends trauma-informed counselling, confidential reporting and referral mechanisms, and relationship-sensitive psychosocial support for young adult survivors.
