Alcohol abuse and its impact on family life: a case study of the Nandi community of Kenya

Abstract

The study is concerned with the investigation of factors that have led to alcohol abuse among the household heads and its contemporary socio-economic effects on family life. The main objective was to find out the socio-economic impact of alcohol abuse on family life among the Nandi community.Quantitative and qualitative data was collected from 124 respondents of Kaplamai location, Nandi district. They were systematically sampled and interviewed. Data was obtained through primary and secondary sources. The secondary data was collected through library research where various books and journals were reviewed. The deviance theory was also used which was put forward by Durkheim in 1952.The tools for collecting data include the questionnaire, semi-structured interview guides and direct observations. The study also used five case studies who were purposively selected.The study focused on three main broad questions: 1. What re the factors that have led to the overindulge of persons in alcohol among the Nandi community? 2. What are the contemporary socio-economic effects of alcohol abuse on family life? 3. How do the affected families cope with the problems of alcohol abuse? The study found out that harsh economic conditions have contributed to alcohol abuse. It also found out that socio-cultural changes have played a role whereby the traditional and religious regulations that used to guard against the misuse of alcohol have broken down.The study also established that marriage stability and emotional well-being of the children have been adversely affected. 57.3% of the spouses complained about their husbands drinking habits. The study also found out that the family has resorted into brewing changaa and busaa for sale in order to support itself. This enhances the problem.The study concluded that alternative source of income should be introduced in order to curb the problem, a lot of awareness should be created on the impact of alcohol abuse on the family.