Determinants of Psychosocial Well-Being among Mothers of Children Born with Disabilities in Kenya: Perceived Effectiveness of Support Systems
Lucy Wanjira Mwangi
Department Educational Psychology, School of Education
University of Eldoret, Kenya
Email: lucywanjiram@gmail.com
Abstract: Despite existing social, religious, and institutional support systems, mothers of children born with disabilities in Kenya continue to experience significant psychosocial challenges. The ineffectiveness and uneven accessibility of these support systems has resulted in persistent emotional distress, feeling left on their own, and reduced well-being among affected mothers. The purpose of this study was to examine the determinants of psychosocial well-being among mothers of children born with disabilities in Kenya, focusing on the perceived effectiveness of support systems. The study was anchored on Lazarus and Folkman’s Stress and Coping Theory (1984), which explains how individuals manage stress through available coping resources. A secondary data research design was adopted, utilizing peer-reviewed journal articles, government reports, and institutional publications. Data were collected through document review and systematic search using databases such as WHO, World Bank, and academic journals. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis to identify patterns across societal attitudes, family support, spiritual support, and government interventions. Findings revealed that societal stigma and inadequate family support negatively affect psychosocial well-being, while spiritual support provides the most consistent coping mechanism. Government support systems exist but remain inconsistently implemented and partially effective. This paper concluded that psychosocial well-being is shaped by a combination of social, familial, spiritual, and institutional factors that are not optimally integrated. The paper recommended strengthening government disability programs, enhancing community sensitization to reduce stigma, improving family-based support systems, and integrating structured psychosocial interventions within faith-based organizations to improve maternal well-being.
