Selected Psychosocial Factors That Lead to Resilience among Refugees Living in Nairobi Kenya

The risk of experiencing poor mental outcomes by refugees living in urban areas is disproportionately higher, yet some fail to successfully mitigate the social, emotional and environmental stressors to remain resilient. This study examined how social support, self-efficacy and spirituality lead to resilience among refugees living in Nairobi, Kenya. The study adopted a correlational research design, targeting an estimated 1,000 refugees of Congolese, Somali and South Sudanese origin residing in Kangemi, Kawangware and Eastleigh Estates of Nairobi County. Stratified, simple random sampling techniques were applied in selecting a study sample of 100 refugees. The probability proportional to size approach was adopted in allocating location-level samples. Structured questionnaires comprising standardized psychological measurement scales were used to collect primary data. A pilot study was conducted on a sample of 15 respondents conveniently sampled from Githurai Estate. Descriptive and inferential data analysis was done with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences. The study established that the refugees living in Nairobi enjoyed higher levels of social support from significant others than from family members and friends. Social support was positively and significantly associated with resilience. The refugees were highly self-efficacious, translating to a positive and significant relationship between self-efficacy and resilience though to a moderate extent. The implications of these findings to the practice of psychological therapy and counselling are that individuals and agencies focusing on promoting resilience among refugees and other populations in psychological distress should consider interventions that enhance the individual's ability to attract and utilize social support.