Authoritarian Parenting Style and Deviant Behaviour among Students in Public Universities in Mount Kenya East Region, Kenya

Patience Wamucii Munene, Veronica Nyaga & Shadrack Munanu Kithela
Tharaka University, Kenya
Email: patiencewmunene@gmail.com

Abstract: In the recent years, deviant behaviours have been on the rise among university students, with examination malpractice, alcoholism, substance abuse, and sexual deviance being the most common. This not only hinders students’ academic achievement but also their future careers. This study examines the relationship between parenting styles and deviance among university students. This study was anchored on the Parenting Styles Theory and utilized the correlational research design. Three hundred and eighty-three respondents participated in the study. Three hundred and seventy-five undergraduate students were selected using simple random sampling while eight Deans of Students and Students’ Counsellors were selected using purposeful sampling. Data was collected using interview schedules and questionnaires. The validity of the instruments was confirmed by supervisors and experts from the Department of Education at Tharaka University. Reliability was determined using Cronbach’ s Alpha, which yielded a coefficient of α = 0. 749, deemed reliable. Data analysis was conducted by the aid of Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The study findings revealed that there is no statistical significant relationship between authoritarian parenting style and deviant behaviours. of (β = 0.066, p >0118).This study established that authoritarian parenting style has no relationship with deviant behaviours among students in public universities in Kenya. One potential explanation is that authoritarian practices, though harsh, might be internalized as discipline in Kenyan households, reducing their observable negative outcomes. The study therefore calls for more research on aspects such as peer influence, institutional support, and individual traits which may influence behaviour.