Analysis of Christian Union Students’ Perceptions of Peer Pressure as a Factor Influencing Cultism in Public Universities in Kenya

Abstract

This study analysed Christian Union (CU) students’ perceptions of peer pressure as a factor influencing cultism in public universities in Kenya. Although researches have been carried out regarding the factors influencing cultism in institutions of higher learning, on the Kenyan scene, there was need for a study of the Christian Union students’ perceptions of peer pressure as a factor influencing cultism in public universities in Kenya. The study employed a convergent parallel mixed-methods research design guided by Bounded Choice Theory. The study was conducted in six selected public universities where cases of cultism have been reported. The target population comprised 55,600 CU students in Kenyan public universities, while the accessible population consisted of 10,900 CU students from the six selected universities. A sample of 220 CU students was selected using simple random and stratified sampling techniques. Of these, 193 responded, yielding an 88 per cent response rate. Additionally, 60 small-group Bible study leaders and six CU patrons were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires, focus group discussions, and interview schedules. The findings revealed a statistically significant relationship between peer pressure and the prevalence of cultism (r = 0.612, p < .05), suggesting that peers can influence students’ recruitment into cult groups. The study recommends equipping new students with practical skills to recognise, resist, and manage peer pressure during university orientation to reduce their vulnerability to cult recruitment.