Influence of Family Constellations on Risky Sexual Behaviour among Undergraduate Students in Nakuru County, Kenya

Abstract

This study examined the influence of family constellations on risky sexual behaviour among undergraduate students in university town campuses in Nakuru County, Kenya. A descriptive correlational research design was employed within a convergent parallel mixed-methods approach, integrating quantitative data from structured questionnaires with qualitative data from focus group discussions and key informant interviews. The target population comprised 1,161 third-year undergraduate students from Egerton University, St. Paul’s University and Kabarak University. A sample of 112 students was selected using proportionate stratified sampling to allocate participants across campuses, followed by simple random sampling to select students within each campus. A total of 112 questionnaires were distributed, and all were completed and returned, representing a 100 per cent response rate. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, bivariate regression and multiple regression in SPSS Version 27, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The family constellations scale recorded a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of .842, indicating good internal consistency. Multiple regression analysis showed that family constellations were not a statistically significant predictor of risky sexual behaviour (β = −.093, p = .202). Qualitative findings highlighted limited family communication about sexuality, parental absence or limited engagement, and reliance on siblings and peers for sexual information. The findings indicate that family-related experiences may shape students’ understanding of sexuality, although family constellations did not significantly predict risky sexual behaviour in the quantitative model.