| dc.description.abstract | This study examines the challenges the youth in Kenya face that lead them to engage in
diversionary or what can be referred to as negative behaviour. Many initiatives have been
started by the Government, the Non-governmental Organizations and other groups in an
attempt to address these problems to the benefit of the youth. This research explored a
number of these initiatives in order to determine the main factors that promote and influence
the youth to engage in positive behavioural changes. The study focused on the youth
affiliated to the National Christian Youth Network (NCYN), adults working with the NCYN
as well as other youth and youth leaders in Nairobi churches. The study was based on
responses of a sample of 286 respondents who included the youth and youth leaders. The
main instrument for data collection was questionnaires. The research used qualitative and
quantitative paradigms. Data was ana lysed and reported through descriptive statistics
according to the objectives and research questions. The study results revealed that supportive
and available parents played a major role in shaping the behaviours of the youths. One
interesting outcome from the research was that the youth rated economic empowerment more
highly than even training. Hence, the significance of economic empowerment implies that
any planned initiatives have to include measures that allow the youth to develop skills that
can generate some form of income. Otherwise, side-lining or keeping the youth on the
periphery of activities will not enable the building or exploiting of their abilities or
confidence for any positive transformation. The positive results for parental guidance signify
the importance of the parents being available and taking up the responsibility of inculcating
in their children progressive thinking, building optimism, and supporting and shaping the
behaviour of the youth. Therefore, the role of parents, teachers, religious leaders and other
leaders in creating an atmosphere where the youth feel comfortable to approach, consult with
them and discuss their needs and challenges is critical. This will go a long way in inspiring,
mentoring and designing activities to promote positive behaviour change. The relevance of
available training opportunities and other youth activities suggests that youth organizations
and other training institutions have to offer programs that impart skills, knowledge and create
opportunities for the youth to utilize their time in positive character building activities. | en |
