Social Psychology
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Item Begging among Physically Healthy Adults in Addis Ababa: Commonness, Quality of Life and Mental Wellbeing(Addis Ababa University, 2024-04) Abduselam Kemal; Belay Tefera ( Prof.)Beggary is taking a new dimension recently. It is being considered as a profitable business. Those who are physically fit enough and able to take on formal economic activities are joining the field. This study basically explores the commonness of begging among physically healthy adults, reasons for getting into streets, daily income, challenges faced and coping strategies, quality of life, and mental well being. The mean difference in mental well being between addicted and non-addicted beggars was also tested. Thirty-nine physically healthy beggars, 12 non-beggars, and three key-informants from Labor and Social Affairs Bureau /LSAB/ were selected for qualitative data through purpose, convenience, and availability sampling techniques. Sixty-four beggars were also selected randomly using simple random sampling approach for quantitative data. Qualitative data were collected through open-ended questionnaire, interview, and focus group discussion, whereas quantitative data were collected by the help of adapted Mental Health Continuum Short Form /MHC-SF/ scale. Percentage, mean, and independent samples t-test were used for the analysis of the quantitative data; whereas thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data. The findings of the study revealed that the number of physically healthy adult beggars is increasing and that begging is becoming a common way of earning a living. Among the reasons accounting for begging, many participants were found begging in streets through invitation by other beggars. The findings also indicated that although beggars earned far better daily income on average than many government employees, the majority of the participants‟ quality of life was found poor. The results of the quantitative data revealed that the mean mental well being score of physically healthy beggars (56.6) was found to be above average (35); indicating that physically healthy beggars were found mentally healthy too. The analysis of the t-test shows that there was significant difference between addicted and non-addicted adult beggars in mental well being; t(df = 36) = 6.8, p < .01), This shows that the mental well being of non-addicted participants was better than the addicted group. Because the country is missing productive age people due to begging, the researcher argues that begging among physically healthy adults need to be controlled. To minimize or ultimately stop the behavior reasons accounting for begging should be improved; alms givers have to discriminate between physically healthy beggars and those who have culturally accepted reasons to beg. Furthermore, law enforcing agencies and all concerned organizations should show combined genuine interest to minimize and ultimately stop begging among physically healthy beggars. Key Words: Begging, Physical Health, Physically Healthy Beggars, Deserving Beggars, Addicted and Non-Addicted Beggars, Quality of Life, Mental Well beingItem Exploring Employees’ Cultural Intelligence in an Inter-Culturally Diverse Domestic Context: the Case of Oromia Broadcasting Network(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Korie Shankulie; Habtamu Wondimu (Prof.)The purpose of this research was to examine the cultural intelligence of a varied group of employees at the OBN-Horn of Africa Channel, encompassing individuals from different cultural, geographical, ethnic, and generational backgrounds. A total of 116 participants took part in the study, with 23.3% being female and 76.7% male. Among them, 80 participants were aged between 25 and 35, accounting for 69.6%, while 35 participants were above 35 years old, making up 30.4% (Mean=32.5, SD= .46214). The survey method was utilized for data collection, and the data was analyzed using IBM SPSS statistics data editor version 26. Additionally, a reliability test was conducted on the dataset using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, covering all aspects of cultural intelligence (CQ). The results of the statistical analysis indicated that the participants in the study displayed significant results on various facets of CQ, such as metacognitive CQ, cognitive CQ, motivational CQ, and behavioral CQ. This suggests that the majority of employees are actively adapting and updating their assumptions and mental models of other cultures, as well as acquiring substantial knowledge of different cultures to facilitate effective communication and interaction across diverse cultural organizational settings. The study underscores the significance of fostering cultural intelligence in today's diverse and inclusive workplaces. By enhancing cultural intelligence, employees can successfully navigate cross-cultural environments, leading to improved outcomes at both individual and organizational levels. This research contributes to the existing literature on cultural intelligence and offers valuable insights for organizations seeking to enhance intercultural competence among their workforce. Keywords: Cultural Intelligence, Diversity, Intra/Intercultural diversity, domestic contextItem Family Formation and Functioning Experiences of Blended Family Members in Ethiopia: A Constructivist Grounded Theory (Doctoral Dissertation)(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Kumneger Fikre; Tamirie Andualem (Ass. Prof.)The formation of blended families is mainly preceded by divorce, widowhood or romantic breakups for adults and parental separation or loss for children. As a result, the members are likely to form the new family with unsettled negative emotions such as anxiety, fear, and hopelessness. This, in turn, may affect the family’s normal functioning. This study explored the family formation processes and the family functioning experiences of blended families in Ethiopia. It employed qualitative research with constructivist grounded theory design to develop models that describe and explain the phenomenon. The study employed purposive and theoretical sampling technique and interviewed twenty-five participants drawn from eight diverse blended families. Accordingly, blended families with different family structure, socio economic, religious and educational background participated in the study. The study employed constant comparative analysis method which helped it to have meaningful interplays between data collection and analysis phases. Finally, the study constructed three different models; blended family formation model, blended family functioning model and a model that depicts the link between blended family formation and blended family functioning. The first identified the state partners were in namely problem state and aspiration state as one of the major factor that informed partners decision to blend. The second depicted three major categories of blended families (functional blended families, deteriorating blended families and dysfunctional blended families) based on their reported family functioning experiences and the third model described the link between the former two models. The study has practical implications and contributions to the design and development of evidence based blended family interventions. Keywords: blended family, blended family formation, blended family functioning, blended family model, constructivist grounded theory, EthiopiaItem Emotional Intelligence, Perceived Leadership Behavior and Job Efficiency: The Case of Ethiopian Trading Businesses Corporation(Addis Ababa University, 2024-05) Mahlet Getachew; Mitku Hambisa (PhD)This study investigates the interplay between employee emotional intelligence, perceived leadership behavior, and sector level job efficiency within the Ethiopian Trading Business Corporation (ETBC). The primary objectives of the study are to assess employees' emotional intelligence levels, analyze the interrelations among these variables, test the hypotheses that both emotional intelligence and leadership behavior positively impact job efficiency, compare these variables across different demographic groups, and discuss the implications for organizational behavior and human resource management theory, practice, and policy. Data were collected from employees across various sectors of ETBC in Addis Ababa using a convenient sampling technique and stratified random sampling. A total of 272 respondents (168 males and 104 females) participated, with data gathered through a survey questionnaire measuring employees emotional intelligence, perceived leadership behavior, and job efficiency. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 27, employing descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficient, regression, and multivariate analysis of variance. Findings indicate that employees at ETBC exhibit moderate levels of emotional intelligence, with higher scores in emotional sensitivity and understanding compared to well-being, self-control, and sociability. There was no significant correlation between emotional intelligence and leadership behavior. However, emotional intelligence showed a significant positive correlation with job efficiency, suggesting that higher emotional intelligence is associated with better job performance. Leadership behavior also correlated positively with job efficiency, indicating that effective leadership enhances task efficiency. Together, emotional intelligence and leadership behavior accounted for 43.2% of the variance in job efficiency. Demographic analysis revealed significant differences across sectors, with Corporate Logistics employees showing lower emotional intelligence scores compared to other sectors. Age also influenced job efficiency, with older employees exhibiting different performance levels, likely due to varying experience and skills. Other demographic factors, such as gender, education level, marital status, experience, and work position, had no substantial impact on the studied variables. Additionally, ETBC employees demonstrate moderate emotional intelligence, particularly in emotional sensitivity and understanding. Transformational leadership behaviors are prevalent, especially in intellectual stimulation and idealized attributes, while transactional leadership behaviors focus heavily on task monitoring and control. Passive/avoidant leadership behaviors are present but not dominant. These findings emphasize the importance of enhancing emotional intelligence and leadership behaviors to improve job efficiency, with particular attention to sector-specific and age-related differences. Keywords: Employees Emotional Intelligence, Perceived Leadership behavior, Sector level job efficiencyItem An Assessment of the effect of Group Cohesion in Self-Help Groups Functioning: The Case of Self-Help Groups in Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Samrawit Afework; Mulat Asnake (PhD)Self-help groups (SHGs) are small, voluntary associations of poor individuals from the same socioeconomic background. These groups come together to utilize mutual aid and self-help to address their shared difficulties. Studying group cohesion benefits the sustainability of the group and the achievement of their objectives. It is evident that group cohesion plays a crucial role in sustaining volunteers and achieving their goals. The general objective of this study was to assess group cohesion and the factors associated with it in self-help groups in Addis Ababa. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches were employed. A cross-sectional survey was used as the quantitative method, while Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were conducted as the qualitative approach to reinforce the quantitative findings. A single population proportion sample size technique was applied, resulting in a sample size of 96 individuals out of a total of 1,430. The KIIs and FGDs were conducted simultaneously. The results showed that in the Yeka sub-city, 82.3% (n=79) of the self-help group members demonstrated group cohesion, while 17.7% (n=17) indicated weak group cohesion. Overall, 75% of the group members exhibited cohesion among team members. Group members who received family support had a 26% greater likelihood of sustaining their membership. The self-help groups demonstrated strong cohesion due to positive relationships among members, trust, and transparent management. Decisions were made collaboratively within the group. However, the groups lacked a common goal that could be shared among all members. Key Words: Self-help group, group cohesion, and cohesion.Item Assessing Protection Support and Access to Public Services of the Eritrean Refugees in Alemwach Settlement, Dabat Woreda, Amhara Region(Addis Ababa University, 2024) Tamirat Mezgebu; Abebaw Minaye (PhD)The primary aim of this study was to assess the protection support and access to public services for Eritrean refugees in the Alemwach Settlement, situated in the Dabat woreda, Amhara Region. For this study 216 refugee community members were participated and also including refugee committee, different stalk holders from GO and NGO participated for FGD and KII. The participants included Eritrean refugees living in the Alemwach settlement in Dabat, Amhara. The study addressed three main research questions. A mixed-methods approach was utilized, combining both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. The qualitative methods included: Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with refugee community members and stakeholders from both government organizations (GOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).34 participants were part of the FGD with different sessions. Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with service providers, humanitarian organizations, and government officials based in Dabat. For quantitative method two Standardized questionnaires for social and psychological wellbeing of refugees were employed. The research also used secondary documents. The study examined how Eritrean refugees receive support and protection services from government and nongovernmental organizations in the Alemwach settlement. The findings revealed that access to basic public services for Eritrean refugees is inadequate due to various challenges, including logistical issues and insufficient infrastructure. The study explored the psychological challenges faced by refugees, who were secondarily displaced from former camps in the Tigray region to Alemwach in the Amhara region. Using a standardized psychological and social wellbeing scale, the study found that while most refugees have adjusted to their new environment, some still need additional psychosocial support due to past traumatic experiences. Despite these challenges, both the refugee and host communities generally maintained a positive outlook. The study assessed how refugees access and share public services with the host community, following the UNHCR’s integrated area based approach. The results identified gaps and challenges in accessing shared services, such as healthcare and education. Several unmet needs were highlighted, including camp security, opportunities for social interaction and participation, movement restrictions, and access to education and health services. The study also identified significant unmet psychosocial needs and gaps between the services required by refugees and those provided by agencies and humanitarian organizations, largely due to budget constraints. Key unmet needs include: Security within the camp; Opportunities for social interaction and participation; Freedom of movement.; Access to education and health services; Legal needs, such as documentation for new births and ID cards and Proof of registration for refugees. A simple descriptive analysis was conducted to understand the support provided to the Eritrean refugee community and their access to basic public services in the Alemwach settlement. The findings underscore the need for improved support mechanisms and better service provision to meet the needs of Eritrean refugees in the region. Key words: protection support; Eritrean refugees; access to public services; psychosocial support, unmet needsItem Knowledge and Intention to Report Child Sexual Abuse among Harawacha Primary School Teachers at Melka Bello Woreda, Oromia(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Yebichaye Yeshitila; Dawit Mekonnen (PhD)Studies have identified various interpersonal and social factors affecting suspected child sexual abuse. However, attitudes to reporting, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control as influencing teachers' intention to report child sexual abuse are still scarce, showing knowledge gaps concerning teachers' role in disclosing child sexual abuse cases. Particularly, despite many child sexual abuse cases, no study yet attempted to examine child sexual abuse cases in eastern Harerghe including Harawach town. This study employs quantitative research methods to collect and examine attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavior control as teachers' intention to report child sexual abuse. Survey participants were selected using stratified random sampling techniques (N=181). The research utilized a questionnaire as a data collection instrument. Correlational and hierarchical regression analysis approaches were employed to analyze data. Findings indicated that all teachers' attitudes to reporting, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control were positively and significantly associated with teachers' intention to report child sexual abuse. The Findings from hierarchical regression analysis showed that subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, and the number of children significantly predicted teachers' intention to report child sexual abuse. The study concludes that enhancing perceived behavioral control and creating facilitating norms can improve teachers' intention to report CSA. This study has an important contribution to various stakeholders working on child rights protection by providing insight for developing prevention and early intervention strategies for the victims of CSA. This study also contributes to the child protection literature and theory of planned behavior. Keywords: Child sexual abuse, Reporting intention, Educator awareness, Subjective norm, Perceived behavior, AttitudeItem Socio-Economic Causes of Juvenile Delinquency: The Case of Addis Ababa Remand Home(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Yemsrach Dessalegn; Assefa Berihun (PhD)One of the major objectives of the study was to investigate the social causes of juvenile delinquency. Accordingly, this study revealed that peer influence is one of the social causes, followed by broken homes (divorce, death of one parent or both), and low family attachment with parents as the major social causes of juvenile delinquency. The other objective of this study was to investigate the economic causes of juvenile delinquency. Accordingly, this study demonstrated that poverty is one of the economic causes of juvenile delinquency, followed by unemployment as the main economic causes of juvenile delinquency. The present study focused on identifying the socioeconomic causes of juvenile delinquency in Addis Ababa Remand Home. The subjects for this study were 13 juvenile delinquents (3 females) between 9 and 17 years of age who were undergoing rehabilitation in the Remand Home. Purposive sampling techniques were used to select the participants. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis by categorizing them into themes. In this study, the researcher discovered that practically all of the delinquents entered the Lideta remand home facility through theft, selling, and using drugs. Keywords: juvenile delinquency, socioeconomic causes, peer influence, broken homes, family attachment, poverty, unemployment, Addis Ababa Remand Home, thematic analysis.Item Institutional Support, Social Capital, and Emotional and Behavioral Adjustment of Vulnerable Children in Addis Ababa: The Mediating Effects of Family and Peer Social Capital(Addis Ababa University, 2024-07) Simachew Ayalew; Tamirie Andualem (PhD)The study aims to investigate the effects of institutional support and social capital at multiple contexts (family, peer and neighborhood) on the emotional and behavioral adjustment of vulnerable children. Descriptive correlation design was used to explore the status and the relationship among the study variables. Institutional support, social capital and emotional and behavioral adjustment scales were adapted. The reliability and validity of the scales/instruments were ensured through pilot study. Proportional random sampling was used to select a total of 659 participants (female =329 and male =330) from a purposively chosen four child support institutions. The data were screened, processed, and analyzed using SPSS and AMOS soft wares. Independent sample t-test, one sample t- test, one-way ANOVA, correlation, and structural equation modeling (SEM) were employed as data analysis techniques. The findings indicated that there appears a considerable level of institutional support and social capital resources in the study areas. The result also discloses that the socio-demographic variables (sex, grade level of children, neighborhoods, current living condition, number of children, housing condition, work condition and income level of both parents) did not show significant association with the emotional and behavioral adjustment of vulnerable children, except family structure, where children from non-intact families tend to experience higher adjustment problems. Moreover, the result indicated the independent variables, such as institutional support, family social capital, peer social capital and neighborhood social capital, show significant negative associations with emotional and behavioral adjustment, suggesting institutional support and social capital resources improve the emotional and behavioral adjustment of vulnerable children through restraining problem behaviors. SEM-based path analysis result revealed institutional support has a significant effect on the emotional and behavioral adjustment of vulnerable children via family social capital and peer social capital. Similarly, neighborhood social capital has a significant influence on the emotional and behavioral adjustment of these children through family social capital and peer social capital. In other words, social capital resources available in peer and family contexts are mediators in the relationship of institutional support and neighborhood social capital with the emotional and behavioral adjustment of vulnerable children. Therefore, the findings suggested the importance of integrating and improving institutional support and social capital resources in the care and protection of such children and other vulnerable children in low income countries such as Ethiopia. Key words: Institutional Support, Social Capital, Emotional and Behavioral Adjustment, Vulnerable ChildrenItem Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation against Adolescent Girls in Some Selected Secondary Schools in Gulele Sub City, Addis Ababa.(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Sisay Alemayehu; Abera Tibebu (PhD)Online sexual abuse and exploitation against adolescent girls has risen globally, in Africa and in Ethiopia. The study examined the magnitude of online sexual abuse and exploitation against adolescent girls in selected secondary schools; identify typologies and who the potential perpetuators are. In order to investigate the magnitude of OSA among female adolescent, the researcher employed mixed research design. A sequential mixed research design was used. Quantitative and qualitative data from primary and secondary sources were collected. The target population comprised 2849 female students which were 51.87 % of the total population. 339 sample sizes with 95% confidence interval or 5% error margin were considered. A standardized questionnaire, with adequate construct validity and reliability were employed from the primary study samples. From qualitative data collection methods, focus group discussions guides and Document review checklist was used. Female students in the four Gulele Sub city secondary schools faced online sexual abuse and exploitation mostly by their peers. The result concluded that the magnitude of online sexual abuse ranges from 1.2 % to 40 % girls report as they face once form of abuse. The most reported type of on line sexual abuse against girls is Love bombing, with 132 (40 %) girls, followed by boy friending with 66 (20.5 %). The study recommends that government, schools, CRC committees, NGOs has to work in adolescents girls‟ safe internet utilization, having friendly speak up procedures, etc Key Words: Sexual abuse, online sexual abuse and exploitation, Typology of OSAItem A Comprehensive Exploration of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services for Internally Displaced Persons in Debre Brhan Idps Camp(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Amen Begidu; Abera Tibebu (PhD)The multifaceted problems internally displaced persons face have for long been a topic of political, social and academic inters. The main objective of this study is a comprehensive exploration of mental health and psycho social support services for internally displaced persons in Debre Brhan IDPs camp. The research was done through the qualitative approach and 22 individuals participated in it. From 22 participants seven were a professionals who provided mental health and psycho social support services and 15 are from IDPs in the camp. This study used convenience sampling method to select participant. The data was analyzed using a thematic analysis method. Based on the finding the mental health and psycho-social support that is being provided in the Debre Brhan IDPs camp has challenges that need attention. Among these challenges, the imbalance between the number of professionals and displaced persons, security issues, lack of awareness, lack of integration of in-kind and psycho social support, lack of provision of facilities, absence of clear decision on the future status of IDPs, and challenges to update the expert are mentioned. Based on this this study recommends to create awareness about the service, to integrate the service with kind-support, and to update the professionals periodically through training. Keywords: challenges of IDPs, and mental health and psycho social support services,Item The Relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Turnover Intention: The Mediating Effects of Effective Communication, Job Motivation, Job Satisfaction, and Organizational Commitment among Instructors in Public Universities of Ethiopia(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Bantigegn Tegegne; Habtamu Wondimu ( Prof.)Retaining a talented workforce is crucial for any organization. This study examines the relationships between emotional intelligence, effective communication, job motivation, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and turnover intention among full-time instructors at Ethiopian public universities. The objectives were to assess the levels of these variables, explore their interrelationships, examine mediating effects, identify predictors of turnover intention, and determine the influence of background characteristics on turnover intention. A total of 619 randomly selected instructors participated by completing a validated survey questionnaire. Data were analyzed using t-tests, correlations, mediation analysis, hierarchical multiple regressions, and ANOVA. Findings indicated that emotional intelligence scores were significantly higher than the mean test value, whereas turnover intention scores were not. Job motivation and job satisfaction scores were significantly lower, while organizational commitment scores were not significantly lower compared to expected mean values. Emotional intelligence, effective communication, job motivation, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment negatively correlated with turnover intention, while positively correlating with each other. Mediation analysis revealed a significant negative total effect of emotional intelligence on turnover intention, with positive direct effects on effective communication, job motivation, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment. Serial mediation highlighted negative indirect effects of emotional intelligence on turnover intention through job satisfaction, organizational commitment, job motivation, and effective communication. Regression analysis identified emotional intelligence, effective communication, job motivation, and organizational commitment as significant predictors of turnover intention, explaining 30.1% of the variance. No significant gender differences were found in emotional intelligence, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and turnover intention, although female instructors showed significantly higher job motivation. Significant differences in turnover intention were observed across different age groups, marital statuses, educational levels, and work experience. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the predictors and mediating factors influencing turnover intention among instructors. To mitigate turnover intention, organizations should consider implementing programs aimed at enhancing emotional intelligence, effective communication, job motivation, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment. However, the limited explanatory power of these predictors suggests the need for further research in this area. Keywords: Emotional intelligence, turnover intention, effective communication, job motivation, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, instructors, public universities in EthiopiaItem The Relationship between Emotional Intelligence and Conflict Management Style among Employees of Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (Central Region, Megenagna Ditrict)(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Dagmawit Assefa; Habtamu Wondimu(Prof.)The objective of this study was to examine the association between emotional intelligence and conflict management style among employees of Commercial Bank of Ethiopia. A sample consisting of 207 employees (83 females and 124 male) from 115 tellers, 82 senior officers and 5 managers were chosen using stratified random sampling from 10 randomly selected branches of Menagerie district. The participants responded to the Wang and Law Emotional Intelligence scale (WLEIS) and Re hims Organizational Conflict Inventory- II (ROCI-II). Descriptive analysis (frequency, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics such as Pearson correlation, linear regression, independent t-test, and one-way ANOVA were used to analyze quantitative data. The findings show that there was moderate level of emotional intelligence among commercial Bank of Ethiopia. The correlation's finding indicated a strong positive relationship between emotional intelligence and conflict management especially with integrating style indicating that employees with relatively higher emotional intelligence tend to use integrating styles; on the other hand employees with lower emotional intelligence lean towards dominating and avoiding style of conflict management. Emotional intelligence accounted for 38.4% of the variance in conflict management style. The ANOVA's results showed a statistically significant difference between ganders of the respondents with emotional intelligence. Likewise, there was a difference that was statistically not significant in emotional intelligence with respect to the educational background, age and work experience. The implications of the study were converse about. Key words: Emotional intelligence, conflict management styleItem Exploring the Consequence of Divorce on Children and Their Coping Strategies, the Case of Selected Woreda in Yeka Sub-City,(Addis Ababa University, 2023-10) Etsegenet Israel; Mastewal Mekonnen (PhD)Divorce can have a significant consequence on young children, emotionally distressing them and introducing drastic changes to their lives. A qualitative study, using an explorative, descriptive, and contextual paradigm, was conducted to explore and describe the consequences of divorce on children of divorced parents. Participants were children of divorced parents aged 14-18 years, as well as school psychologists, principals, and teachers from elementary and high schools. Purposive sampling was used, and the researcher employed a thematic qualitative analysis approach, specifically narrative method. The results of the study showed that the main repercussions of divorce on children in post-divorce situations are economic, social, and psychological difficulties. The children's coping mechanisms following their parents' divorce were family support, social capital, governmental and non-governmental assistance, and children engaging in self-employment activities. The main negative effects of divorce on children in post-divorce situations were financial hardship, social consequences, psychological issues, and educational difficulties. Both male and female children experienced physical stress after their parents' divorce, but for different reasons: female children due to the weight of household responsibilities, and male children due to the outside work load. The researcher encourages parents to consider the impact of divorce on their children before making a decision to divorce. Governmental and non-governmental organizations should facilitate the placement of psychologists in primary and secondary schools to support and address the psychological impacts of divorce on children. Further research on this topic is encouraged. Key words: Divorce, children, consequences, coping mechanismsItem Exploring the Factors Influencing Volunteer Motivation: A Multi-Dimensional Analysis of Personal Values, Barriers, and Socio-Demographic Variables(Addis Ababa University, 2024-05) Habtemariam Kassa; Tamirie Andualem (Ass. Prof.)This study was aimed at examining the barriers to volunteerism within organizations, investigating correlations between individual religiosity, universalism, power, achievement, hedonism, stimulation, self-direction, benevolence, tradition, conformity, security, and volunteer motivation, exploring the contributions of universalism, power, achievement, hedonism, stimulation, self-direction, benevolence, tradition, conformity, security to volunteer motivation, and probing contributing factors to barriers to volunteerism from multiple perspectives. The data were collected from 203 volunteers who were providing volunteer services in Hawassa, Misrak, and Mehal Ketema Sub-Cities. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used. Means, standard deviations, logistic regression, discriminant analyses, item and factor analyses, t-tests, bar charts, and content analysis were used to examine the data gathered from the two volunteer groups. Altruistic volunteers demonstrate a preference for collective interest values, such as benevolence, tradition, and conformity, while self-interested volunteers prioritize individual interest values, including power, achievement, hedonism, stimulation, and self-direction. Logistic regression reveals that approximately 55.5% of the variability in volunteer motivation can be explained by included independent variables, highlighting the predictive power of value orientations. Moreover, the regularly occurring forms of barriers to volunteerism comprised a scarcity of resources to facilitate volunteerism, the condition of being negligent, apathy towards the needy, an absence of transparency, disrespect, a lack of skilled human resources, and a lack of awareness of volunteerism. It was found that the barriers to volunteerism had increased in the last couple of years. Because of this, volunteer service organizations may need to consider developing an intervention program designed to help people acquire and internalize other-oriented values as priorities when it comes to volunteering. Keywords: religiosity, values, volunteerism, volunteersItem Aggression and Empathy among Graduating Class Students of Social Science and Natural Science Colleges(Addis Ababa University, 2022-06) Hiwot Gebremedhin; Daniel Tefera (PhD)The goal of the current study was to ascertain how aggression and empathy related among Addis Ababa University's undergraduate graduating class students. 161 students between the ages of 19 and 27 were selected as a sample from AAU departments. The survey included 89 male students (55%) and 72 female students (45%). Students were divided into two groups for the study's purposes: social science college students (N=78) and natural science college students (N=83). The study employed a cross-sectional research design. Data were gathered using the Interpersonal Reactivity Index and a new aggression questionnaire prepared specifically for this study. In order to analyze the data, the independent-t test and Pearson's product-moment correlation coefficient were used. The findings revealed no statistically significant correlation between aggression and empathy. Both males and females showed similar levels of aggression. Students in the Natural Science college showed higher aggression as compared to those in the Social Science college. Students in both Social Science and Natural Science colleges showed similar levels of empathy. Additionally, there was no statistically significant difference between females and males in empathy levels. Given the pressing global significance of aggression, further studies are required to enhance our understanding of this phenomenon. Moreover, it is imperative to thoroughly examine the relationship between aggression and empathy, as it holds significant potential for addressing the prevailing levels of violence worldwide. Keywords: Empathy, AggressionItem Correlates of Marital Satisfaction among Mickyliland Condominium Residents: Religiosity, Conflict Resolution Styles, and Love Expression in Focus(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Jemila Goshu; Dawit Mekonnen (PhD)This study investigates the relationship between religiosity, conflict resolution styles, love expression, and marital satisfaction among Mickyliland condominium residents using a cross sectional descriptive design. The data is collected from 339 samples of whom 33% was male and 67% female with 38.77 mean age and 12.91 mean duration of marriage. The findings reveal that 83.3 % of respondents feel moderate level of marital satisfaction with mean value 52.06. A significant positive relationship exists between religiosity and marital satisfaction. Positive problem-solving conflict resolution style shows a significant moderate positive relationship with marital satisfaction, while conflict engagement, self-protection, and acceptance styles exhibit a significant negative relationship. 14.6% of the variance in marital satisfaction can be explained by religiosity, conflict resolution styles and demographic variables while positive problem solving, being female and having a diploma were the only statistically significant predictors. Love expression through verbal communication, practical activities, gift-giving, and accommodating spouse preferences significantly contributes to marital satisfaction. Overall, the study underscores the importance of positive problem-solving and love expression in enhancing marital satisfaction beyond the influence of religiosity and demographic factors. Key words: Marital Satisfaction, Religiosity, Conflict Resolution Styles, Love ExpressionItem Psycho-Social Problems and Coping Mechanisms of Sudanese and South Sudanese Refugees with Multiple Displacement Histories in Sherkole Refugee Camp,Benshangul-Gumuz Region(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) KalabEshetu; AberaTibebu (PhD)This qualitative study investigates the psycho-social problems and coping mechanisms of Sudanese and South Sudanese refugees with multiple displacement histories residing in the Sherkole Refugee Camp in Ethiopia. Employing Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), the research aims to capture the individual narratives of psycho-social problems, coping strategies, and resilience experienced by the participants. By conducting in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, the study unveils a profound narrative of human resilience amidst recurring turbulence, shedding light on the multifaceted experiences of the refugees. The research site's diverse refugee population provides a rich context for understanding the complexity of displacement experiences. The deliberative approach acknowledges potential biases and cognitive dissonance, weaving reflexive measures into the research process, ensuring methodological neutrality and cultural sensitivity. Findings from individual interviews and focus group discussions underscore the enduring psychological toll of forced displacement and illuminate the importance of nuanced, culturally sensitive, and sustained interventions sensitive to the psychosocial dynamics within the refugee community. These insights aim to inform the development of targeted mental health and psychosocial support interventions, facilitating the enhancement of mental health and overall well-being for this vulnerable population. In conclusion, this study not only uncovers the profound psychosocial challenges faced by refugees but also highlights the necessity of reflexivity and self-critique as integral components of ethical qualitative inquiry. Overall, the research aims to contribute essential insights into the psychosocial landscape of populations with recurrent displacement. Keywords: Refugees, Multiple Displacement, Mental Health, Psychosocial ProblemItem Helping Behaviors and the Perception of Helping Intentions among Employees at Oromia Regional Offices, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia(Addis Ababa University, 2023-05) Hawi Tarekegn; Dawit Mekonen (PhD)The goal of this research aimed at investigating helping behaviours and intentions among employees at Oromia regional offices, Ethiopia. Employees were selected proportionally from six randomly chosen Oromia regional offices by contemplating the distribution of gender in each office. The questionnaire included Prosocial Tendencies Measure–Revised (PTM-R), Prosocial Behavioural Intentions Scale (PBIS) and Empathic Concern questionnaire in addition to socio-demographic questionnaire. 263 study participants—167 men and 96 women—completely filled the distributed questionnaire. Collected data were examined with inferential as well as descriptive statistics. This study's results suggested that respondents considerably demonstrated dire prosocial activity in reaction to the crisis or emergency caused by COVID-19 pandemic, ongoing drought, political instability and conflicts in the country. They also highly engaged in compliant prosocial acts in response to requests made either verbally or nonverbally by those who were affected by the aforementioned situations. Females outperformed males in terms of emotional, anonymous, public, and overall prosocial behaviours. The employees' religious practises, marital status, educational background, and monthly income all had a significant impact on their public prosocial behaviours. Likewise, anonymous prosocial behaviours were reliant on marriage, education level and monthly income; emotional prosocial behaviours were determined by religion, education and income, while dire prosocial behaviours were correlated with respondents' religious experiences and monthly income. All prosocial behaviour subtypes and intentions were strongly and positively connected, except for the fact that both compliant and dire prosocial acts were not substantially connected with public and altruistic prosocial behaviours. The study participants' prosocial behaviours were significantly and positively connected with their prosocial intentions and empathetic concern. Moreover, the respondents' empathy for others was a positive predictor of their readiness to help others.Item Social Media Use, Peer Pressure and Aggression: The Case of Secondary School Students, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.(Addis Ababa University, 2023-10) Aster Getachew; Mitiku Hambisa (PhD)Social media usage, peer pressure, and aggression have been global concerns for the past year and a half and are expected to continue in the coming years. Adolescence is influenced by it and has a higher risk of acquiring aggression. It has been witnessed that there were interventions tried by stakeholders to alleviate its consequence on secondary student/ adolescence, but the most important one is to understand how adolescence is aggressive with social media usage and peer pressure. So the primary goal of this study was to look into the relationship among social media use, peer pressure, and aggression. The study employed a quantitative research approach and a correlational research approach. The primary goal of this study was to look into the relationship between social media use, peer pressure, and aggression. The questionnaires were composed of three scales that were distributed to 403 random samples of secondary school students in Addis Ababa City. All participants filled out the questionnaire appropriately. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency, mean, and standard deviation, Pearson product momentum correlation, multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA), and standard multiple regression. The result indicated that first, peer pressure and aggression had a moderately positive relationship (r =.285, P<.001). Second, social media use and aggression had a moderately positive relationship (r =.267, P<.001). Likewise, aggression was found to be predicted significantly by peer pressure and social media use, which jointly accounted for 28.9% of the variance, respectively. Moreover, by using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA), statistically significant results were found in aggression, peer pressure, and social media use with respect to demographic variables such as gender, education, family income, living conditions, and monthly income. The implications of the findings were discussed. The study recommends that the Addis Ababa City Administration Education Office identify the risk factors and design an intervention model for preventing the targeted study population from school-related hazards. Key Words: Aggression, Social Media, Peer Pressure,