Counseling Psychology
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Item Teachers’ beliefs about inclusion and their implementation of inclusive practice for students with autism spectrum disorder in selected private schools(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06) Kalkidan Assefa; Moges Ayele(PhD)This mixed method study examined the belief in inclusion and the implementation of inclusive practices for students with autism spectrum disorder in selected private schools in Addis Ababa. A total of 150 teachers from Flipper International School, Cambridge International School and School of Tomorrow were selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires to collect quantitative data on inclusive beliefs and practices, complemented by semi-structured interviews to provide deeper qualitative insights. Quantitative data were analysed by descriptive statistics, t-tests and ANOVA, while qualitative interview responses were analysed by thematic analysis.The results of the present study show that, although teachers generally have positive beliefs about the importance of inclusion for students with ASD, they also report major difficulties in implementing inclusive practices in practice. In particular, the findings highlighted the critical need for targeted professional development and adequate resources to effectively support students with ASD in inclusive settings. The qualitative data from the interviews further highlighted these obstacles, highlighting the gap between theoretical understanding and practical application in the different classroom settings.The study concluded that closing this gap requires comprehensive training, increased allocation of resources and supportive school policies to improve the ability of teachers in private schools to deliver truly inclusive education for students with ASD. These findings have important implications for teacher training programmes, school administrators and policy makers working to promote a more inclusive and effective education system. Keywords: inclusive education, teacher training, inclusive practices, autism spectrum disorder, special needs educationItem Trauma Informed Care for female Survivors of Domestic Violence in a shelter setting in Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2025-05) Kirse Samuel; Dame Abera (phD)This study explores the implementation and perceived effectiveness of trauma-informed care (TIC) for survivors of domestic violence in a shelter setting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The research aimed to understand how TIC principles such as safety, empowerment, and trust—are applied by service providers and experienced by survivors within the Women’s Shelter and Development Association located in Akaki Kality Sub-City. A qualitative phenomenological approach was used to capture the lived experiences of participants. The study involved ten purposively selected participants—six survivors and four service providers. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and a focus group discussion and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis method. Findings revealed that while counseling services often incorporate TIC principles like emotional validation and confidentiality, other aspects of service delivery lack consistency. Survivors reported positive experiences within the shelter but noted limited support during reintegration. Service providers identified key challenges including inadequate training, emotional fatigue, and lack of institutional guidance. Cultural stigma and poor inter-agency coordination also hindered effective implementation. The study concludes that trauma-informed care is only partially practiced in the Ethiopian context, often relying on personal values rather than structured systems. It recommends more consistent training, policy support, and culturally adapted TIC models to improve service delivery. These findings contribute to the limited literature on TIC in low-resource settings and viii offer practical recommendations for enhancing survivor-centered care in Ethiopia. Keywords: trauma-informed care, domestic violence, survivors, Ethiopia, qualitative researchItem Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Group Therapy for Children With Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: The Case of Mcdp (Mission for Community Development Program(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06) Masresha Siyoum; Assefa Berihun (PhD)Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a well-established treatment for PTSD in children. This Therapy incorporates elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Focused techniques, which make it adaptable for children. The aim of the study is to examine the effectiveness of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Group Therapy for Children with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: the case of Mission for Community Development Program. ABA research design was employed to evaluate the effectiveness of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Quantitative data was gathered using structured questionnaire of CPSS. Quantitative data gathered through CPSS intervention tool measuring PTSD symptoms, emotional regulation, and behavioral changes. To monitor any changes in PTSD symptoms before and after the treatment, the researcher used the Child PTSD Symptom Scale (CPSS). The service provides therapeutic care for 80 children. Consequently, the whole population were took part in the study. The pared t-test is being used to see if symptoms of PTSD change within the group after the intervention. All 80 participants were girls; primarily adolescents aged 16-18 years (55%), indicating a potential influence of social or cultural factors on PTSD prevalence. Additionally, the respondents hail from rural or suburban areas different cultural, with most enrolled in primary school (95%), highlighting disparities in access to mental health care and education in these communities. The t-test result revealed that a significant difference between the average scores before and after treatment, with a mean difference of 1.98 (t = 36.748, df = 79, p < .001). This suggests that the treatment had a substantial positive effect on the participants' scores. Finally the study reveals that the substantial improvements observed in participants, as evidenced by the statistical analyses of pre- and post-treatment assessments, reinforce the efficacy of TF-CBT as a vital therapeutic approach. By promoting resilience and shared experiences, group therapy enhances the therapeutic process, making it particularly valuable for children who have faced trauma. Key Words: Trauma-Focused, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Trauma- Focused Cognitive Behavioral TherapyItem Readiness to Change among People With Substance Use Disorder Who are Admitted for Treatment in Psychiatric and Rehabilitation Centers in Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06) Mekonnen Anley; Seleshi Zeleke ( PhD)The purpose of this study was to assess the readiness to change, explore factors influencing readiness to change and assessing level of voluntariness among people with substance use disorder who are admitted for treatment in Jadber psychiatry and substance rehabilitation center, Ethiopian Prosthetic and Orthotic services (EPOS) mental and substance rehabilitation center and new life substance rehabilitation centers in Addis Ababa. The study was conducted in sequential explanatory mixed-methods research design. The research was conducted from 60 participants; complemented by insights from three key informants and three selected substance abusers. The quantitative data was collected through self-reported questionnaires by using socio demographic questionnaires, substance use history assessment and SOCRATES with three subscales; ambivalence, recognition and taking steps and the qualitative data was collected through in depth interview. The quantitative data was analyzed through descriptive statistics like mean, standard deviation, frequency and inferential statistics like independent samples t test, multiple linear regressions by using SPSS version 26 and the qualitative data was analyzed through thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed that the participant’s readiness to change within three subscales; ambivalence, recognition and taking steps was low. While the majority of participants entered the rehabilitation centers voluntarily, there was no significant difference in their readiness to change across three subscales; ambivalence, recognition, and taking steps between voluntarily and involuntarily admitted individuals with alcohol and other drug abuse issues. The qualitative component of the study explored various factors influencing readiness to change, which were categorized into different themes. Psychological factors identified included low self-confidence, perceived fear of withdrawal symptoms, fear of relapse, and cravings. Environmental factors encompassed the availability of substances, exposure to previous destination and lack of job opportunities, while social factors highlighted poor family and social support, peer pressure, ineffective family approaches, and perceived stigma Key terms; level of voluntariness, readiness to change, rehabilitation centers, stages of change, substance abusItem Prevalence and associated factors of adjustment problems among Addis Ababa University first-year 6kilo campus students(Addis Ababa University, 2025-05) Saron Mesfin; Tigist W. (PhD)Adjustment problem is recognized as a stress-response syndrome, characterized by a maladaptive reaction to an identifiable stressor. Adjustment problems are the most common problems among first-year students who are going through an active adjustment phase when they join the University. The objective is to assess the prevalence of adjustment problems and identify associated factors among first-year undergraduate students in Addis Ababa University 6kilo campus, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2024 GC. An institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted, and a sytematic random sampling technique was employed. Data was collected by using a data collection tool and the SACQ assessment model. Data processing and analysis were done by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 26, then the data were presented in frequency tables and charts. One hundred ninety-nine (64.8%) participants had overall adjustment problems. Among the study participants, a considerable variety of respondents, 142 (46.3%) and 143 (46.6%) respondents had personal-emotional problems and institutional adjustment problems, respectively. Similarly, 134 (43.6%) and 141 (45.9%) had academic adjustment and social adjustment problems, respectively. Variables with an important association with overall adjustment problems were sex, parental marital status, and monthly pocket money. The general prevalence of adjustment problems among first-year regular students was 64.8%. This study indicates that the adjustment problem is becoming a priority among first-year regular university students. So, it's better to emphasize and intervene. Key words: Adjustment problem, first year undergraduate students, academic adjustment, social adjustment, personal emotional adjustment, institutional adjustment. viItem The Psychosocial Consequences of Infertility Treatment and Coping Mechanisms Among Women Under Treatment In Selected Private Infertility Treatment Clinic In Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa Ethiopia, 2025-06) Betelehem Teklu; Daniel Tefera,(Associate Professor)Infertility treatment imposes profound psychosocial burdens on women, particularly in sociocultural context where motherhood is central to female identity. This qualitative phenomenological study explores the psychosocial consequences of infertility treatment and the coping mechanisms adopted by women undergoing such treatment in selected private clinics in Addis Ababa. Focusing on their psychosocial challenges, coping strategies, and the interplay of cultural, relational, and economic factors. Six married women aged 29-39years, diagnosed with primary and secondary infertility and actively receiving assisted reproductive technologies (ART), were Purposively sampled. Data were collected through in-depth interview and analyzed thematically using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to capture the core of participants’ lived experiences. Participants reported high level of psychological distress, including anxiety, grief, and hopelessness, exacerbated by societal stigma that equates womanhood with fertility. Social isolation emerged as women concealed treatment to avoid judgment, while marital relationships fluctuated between solid and strained under financial and emotional pressures. The financial burden of treatments like IVF costing up to 700,000ETB forced participants to deplete savings, sell assets, or borrow funds, amplifying stress. Cultural norms intensified gendered blame, with women disproportionately bearing social scrutiny and familial pressures to pursue alternatives like traditional healing. Coping mechanisms were multifaceted, anchored in spiritual resilience, social support, and cognitive reframing. Faith in divine intervention provided emotional solace, while spouses and close family members offered critical, albeit inconsistent, support. Participants engaged in positive reframing, viewing treatment as a journey of personal growth, though secrecy and social withdrawal often deepened emotional isolation. Notably, the absence of standardized psychosocial support in clinics left women reliant on informal networks, online communities, and self-guided resilience. This research contributes to global discourse on reproductive health equity, advocating for holistic interventions in low-resource settings where infertility remains a silenced crisis. Future research is recommended to include the perspectives of men and couples, explore the long-term psychosocial outcomes of infertility treatment, and conduct comparative studies across different regions and socioeconomic groups in Ethiopia.Item Sexting and High Sexual Risk-Taking Behaviors among High School Adolescents: Lemi Kura Sub-city, A.A.(Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2025-05) Henok Mulugeta; Sewalem Tsega (Associate Professor)The study examines the prevalence, cause, and consequence of sexting and high sexual risk taking behavior among high school students in Lemikura Sub-city, Addis Ababa. With the rapid spread of digital technology and social media, the communication and sexual experimentation of adolescents has been transformed in a manner that invokes concern about associated health and psychological vulnerability. The study used a descriptive mixed-method design with structured interviews and questionnaires among a sample of 2427 selectedstudentswhose age range is 14- 19 using probability sampling. Data analysis using SPSS version 25 identified that social media websites extensive impacts on sexting behaviors, with Instagram, Telegram, WhatsApp, Facebook, and YouTube being major players. The study established a positive correlation between sexting and sexual risk behavior, alcohol and substance abuse, and negative mental health outcomes like anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Furthermore, sexting was also observed to have effects on long-term sexual attitudes and emotional well-being, with common results of shame and emotional distress in adulthood. The results demand the pressing need for comprehensive interventions through digital literacy, mental health services, and culturally sensitive sexual education to mitigate risks and foster healthy adolescent development. The findings of the study have implications for the need for concerted efforts among health practitioners, parents, educators, and policymakers in mounting comprehensive programs that address the multifaceted nature of adolescents' sexual and online lives in Ethiopia.Item Sexual Harassment, Psychological Distress and Coping Mechanism among Menelik Secondary School Students(Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2025-05) Bilen Mesfin; Assefa Berihun (PhD)This study explores the relationships between sexual harassment, psychological distress, and coping strategies among students at Menelik Secondary School. Utilizing a correlational research design and quantitative methods, data were collected from 288 students 185 from Grade 9 and 105 from Grade 10 using a stratified sampling technique to ensure balanced representation across grade levels. The instruments used were the Sexual Experiences Questionnaire (SEQ), the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), and the Brief COPE Inventory. Among the 285 valid responses, 28.4% of students reported experiencing sexual harassment, indicating a significant prevalence within the school environment. The findings revealed that sexual harassment was positively correlated with all forms of psychological distress measured: depression (r = 0.45, p < 0.01), anxiety (r = 0.38, p < 0.01), and stress (r = 0.42, p < 0.01). These results suggest that students who experience higher levels of harassment are more likely to suffer from increased psychological distress. Additionally, coping strategies played a critical role in students’ emotional responses. Problem-focused coping showed a moderate negative correlation with depression (r = -0.32, p < 0.05), indicating a protective effect, while avoidant coping was positively associated with anxiety (r = 0.27, p < 0.05), suggesting it may worsen psychological outcomes. The study highlights the emotional toll of sexual harassment on adolescents and the importance of promoting adaptive coping strategies. It provides strong evidence that psychological support systems are needed within schools to address both the experiences and emotional consequences of harassment. School-based interventions are recommended, including awareness programs, mental health support services, and training for staff on how to identify and respond to cases of harassment. Coping skills training should also be integrated into the school environment to enhance students' psychological resilience.Item Relationship of Problematic Social Media Use and Depression Among Addis Ababa University Main Campus Regular Undergraduate Students(Addis Ababa University, 2024-05) Haileleul Mekonnen; Habtamu Wondimu (Prof.)Problematic social media use (PSMU) and its potential link to depression among university students have become significant areas of concern. This study aims to explore the prevalence of PSMU and its relationship with depression symptoms and identify demographic factors associated with level of depression among undergraduate students at Addis Ababa University's main campus. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 316 students using a stratified random sampling method from March to April 2024. Data were collected using standardized questionnaires, including the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS) and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis were employed to analyze the data. The study found that 17.1% of the respondents exhibited problematic social media use. Additionally, the prevalence of depression was found to be 77 (24.3%:95% CI :19.7-29.5) with 4.4% of the participant found to have severe depression. The odds of depression are 1.6 times higher in those compared to non-problematic social media users (AOR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.4-1.8; p < 0.0001). Moreover, individuals who frequently use social media to watch pornography have a 14 times greater likelihood of experiencing depression compared to those who do not watch pornography at all. Compared to men, female students report greater levels of depression. The findings indicate a high prevalence of PSMU among undergraduate students at Addis Ababa University and a significant association with depression symptoms. These results highlight the need for targeted interventions to address PSMU and its mental health implications among university students. Keywords: Problematic social media use (PSMU), Depression, TikTok, Social media addiction, Addis Ababa University.Item Career Choice, Associated Factors and Career Strategies among General Winget Polytechnic College Students(Addis Ababa University, 2024-10) Mehari Abebe; Abera Getachew (Ass. prof.)The major aim of this study was to study career choice, associated factors and career strategies among General Winget polytechnic college students. Research design was apply survey research design and the study employed questionnaires for data collection. Stratify sampling technic use conducted and 200 participants selected randomly. The collected data was analyzed using quantitative and qualitative used descriptive and inferential statistics method of analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the findings of the study and inferential statistics were employed to check the statistical significance of the tests. Hence to calculate the correlation between variables Pearson product moment correlation, independent sample t-test was used to calculate career choice factor across sex. ANOVA was used to view the relationship between career choice factor and demographic variables. Many of students’ chose their career based on their interest. Career orientation had significant positive association with student career choice. From career orientation real challenge and lifestyles was the major factor of career orientation. Career thought was significant factors of student career choice. Majorities of students decision making confusion during career choice. Career counselor role has a significant effect on the student career orientation and career choice. Career choice strategies are students before career choice understand and know their interest and talent to give attention for own interest, passion and ability. Keywords: - Career choice, career orientation, career thought, career counselor, career strategies and college student.Item The Perceived Need of Career Guidance and Counseling for Career Decision Making and self-perceived Employability of Students in Addis Ababa University Undergraduate Regular Students(Addis Ababa University, 2024-11) Metasebiya Genanew; Abera Getachew (Ass. Prof.)This study's main goal was to investigate the student’s perception on the need of career counseling for college students career decision making, students career decision making and its association with self-perceived employability. To carry out the needs of the research objectives, a simple descriptive research survey design was used. The research approach was quantitative approach with a minor qualitative approach to support the quantitative approach. The simple random sampling techniques were used in the study. A total of 300 university students from Addis Ababa university were included in the sample 163(54.3%) Males and 137(45.7%) Females. The data was collected through questionnaires. The results were analyzed using inferential statistics and descriptive statistics. The results showed that students (83.7%) were aware of the importance/need of career counseling at the university level and that they saw it as necessary for career advice and decision-making while choosing appropriate university courses for their future careers. It is also observed that there is a positive association between academic career decision making and perceived employability (r= 0.294). The result shows that the need for career guidance and counseling at the university is high among the students, and that the awareness about the center and the service is really low, the students also have a positive perception about the need for career guidance and counseling for career decision making. As a recommendation the centers of career guidance and counseling should work harder on creating more awareness to the students about the center and its services as well as creating an inviting environment for the students. Keywords: career decision making, career counseling needs, perceived employability, university studentsItem Perceived Impact of Social Media on Academic Performance of High School Students of Diamond Academy School in Yeka Sub-City, Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2024-07) Tesfaye Assefa; Daniel Tefera (PhD)The main objective of the study was investigated perceived impact of social media networking on the academic performance of high school students at Diamond Academy School in Yeka sub-city. This study used quantitative research design, 185 students selected by simple random sampling techniques. Instruments used to gather information from respondents were questionnaires. Descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage), t-test, ANOVAs, and correlations analysis employed to analysis the collected data. The results of study illustrated that, 46.5% students consumed greater than 2 hours per day on internet networking. About 39.5% students used social media for social chatting rather than educational purposes. The correlation result presented negative and statistically significant (r= -0.431, P < 0.0001) relationship between academic achievement and use of social media by students. The ANOVA yielded a statistically significant difference (P =0.0267) on academic performance among students who spend different time on using social media platforms. However, academic performance of students who use different internet networks had no statistically significance difference (P =0.075). Students who use social media must conscious of both positive and negative effects of social media on academic achievement, according to this study. Parents and teachers should be crucial in raising awareness and guiding children methods of using social media platform without compromising their academic. Students shall to consume little time as much as possible on social media in order to focus their education. Ultimately, the study demonstrated the critical requirement of giving importance to the work of raising parents and educators' knowledge of effective ways to support students in engaging in positive media interactions and communications. Key words: Academic performance, Social media use, StudentsItem Psychological Experience of Parents of Children with Autism at St. Paul Hospital Millennium Medical College in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia(Addis Ababa University, 2024-11) Ayisha Abdulaziz; Mulat Asnake(PhD)This study is aimed to explore the psychological experience of parents of children with Autism at St Paul Hospital Millennium Medical College. An institutional-based qualitative phenomenological study was conducted through an in-depth interview, using purposive sampling techniques. Nine participants participated in the data collection. Semi structured questionnaire were used for data collection supported by recorders and field notes. Thematic analysis was applied to transcribe code, categorize and develop themes from the data. The finding of this study indicates that these parents frequently encounter considerable psychological difficulties including stress, anxiety, self-isolation, poor self-care, anger and sadness. Both fathers and mothers of children with Autism are affected by the situation. Cultural perceptions and shortage of services further exacerbate these challenges. Despite these difficulties, parents employ coping strategies such as religion, acceptance, resilience, emotion focused coping and Complaint to government officials by letter. Parents also expressed their frustration with the inadequate educational and health care services. Parents suggested that the educational curriculum should be reviewed, and they emphasized the need for training for healthcare professionals. This study signifies the need for improved support systems for parents of children with autism, emphasizing the importance of addressing both their needs and the societal factors that influence their experiences.it is recommended to organize community events, provide adequate educational facilities and health care service. Additionally policy should be developed to improve access to services and protect the rights of individuals with autism and their families. Key words: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), parents, psychological experiences, coping strategies and supportItem Perceived Influence and Resistance to Gender Stereotyping in Career Choice among Debre Berhan University Students(Addis Ababa University, 2024-12) Dasash Getnet; Moges Ayele (PhD)This phenomenological study explores the influence of gender stereotypes on career choice among students. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 9 participants and group discussions with 8 participants who are third-year students at Debre Berhan University. Being guided by thematic analysis methodology, the study identified key themes from interviews and FGD regarding the lived experiences of the participants concerning gender stereotypes. The findings reveal that gender stereotypes significantly influence students' career paths, shaping their perceptions and internalization of societal expectations. Additionally, cultural norms and family pressures are crucial in guiding career decisions. The findings underscore the imperative for enhanced career counseling and support services to mitigate these stereotypes, there by fostering an inclusive environment that empowers all students to pursue their career goals. This research offers valuable insights for educational institutions, policymakers, and community stakeholders, contributing to the existing literature on gender and career choice within the Ethiopian higher education context. Keywords: Career choice, Influence, Gender stereotype, Undergraduate studentItem Depression, Anxiety and Stress Among People Living Chronic Hepatitis B(Addis Ababa University, 2024-11) Eyerusalem Mamo; Assefa Berihun (PhD)This study investigates depression, anxiety, and stress among individuals living with chronic Hepatitis B (CHB) and receiving follow-up care at St. Paul’s Millennium Medical College, aiming to assess the associations between socio-demographic factors and these mental health outcomes and identify potential predictors of each condition. An institutional-based cross-sectional design was employed, using a quantitative approach to gather data from a sample of 262 individuals with CHB. The Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) was administered to evaluate participants’ emotional states, and both stratified and simple random sampling methods were applied to select the study group. Descriptive statistics were calculated to establish prevalence rates, with Chi-square tests analyzing associations between socio-demographic and clinical factors (age, gender, income, education, family size, year since diagnosed, medication status and adherence) and levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Further, binary logistic regression was used to determine the significance of socio-demographic variables in predicting these mental health outcomes. The findings revealed that 24% of participants experienced symptoms of depression, 23.6% exhibited anxiety, and 19% reported stress. Depression and anxiety were notably more prevalent among females, while stress levels were higher among participants with lower income and educational attainment. Chi-square analysis indicated that while most socio-demographic factors did not demonstrate statistically significant associations with mental health outcomes, education and income levels were associated with heightened rates of depression, anxiety, and stress. Logistic regression results indicated that income level was a significant predictor of depression, with higher-income individuals showing greater odds of depressive symptoms possibly due to the social pressures and expectations they face, which may compound feelings of isolation and stigma often experienced by CHB individuals. Additionally, lower education and income levels were significantly associated with increased stress, suggesting socio-economic factors play a crucial role in the mental health of this population. These findings emphasize the psychological burden of CHB, particularly for women and those with limited educational and financial resources, who are at higher risk of anxiety and stress. In conclusion, the study underscores the need for comprehensive mental health support tailored to the socio-economic and educational challenges faced by people with CHB. Incorporating accessible counseling services, educational resources, and social support within CHB treatment programs could help alleviate the psychological strain on these patients, ultimately improving adherence to treatment and enhancing quality of lifeItem Depression, Anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder among People with Orthopedic Conditions atAaBET Hospital. A Cross-sectional Study(Addis Ababa University, 2024-10) Fraol Melese; Nimona Shaka (Ass.prof.)Introduction: - Orthopedic conditions, which encompass a range of issues affecting the bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments, are prevalent worldwide, impacting millions of individuals. While the physical limitations and pain associated with these conditions are well-documented, the mental health implications—such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)—are frequently overlooked. Thus, there is a lack of previous study in our study area so this study aims to explore depression, anxiety and post traumatic syndrome disorders among people with orthopedic conditions at AaBET hospital Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2024. Methodology: - institutional based correctional study design was conducted on 422 patients. Data collected for the study was analyzed using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive statistics to summarize categorical and continuous variables, and utilizing t-tests to assess sex differences in depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and anxiety. Logistic regression analysis model were fitted to identify the association between outcome and independent variables. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated to evaluate the significance of relevant factors, with a p-value of ≤ 0.05 considered significant. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Addis Ababa University School of Psychology, and permission was granted by AaBET Hospital for research conduct. Informed consent was secured from participants, who were assured of the confidentiality of their data, which would only be used for the study's purposes. All records were securely stored, ensuring that personal information remained anonymous in any reports. Result: - The study assessed 422 orthopedic trauma patients, revealing significant demographic and clinical characteristics, including a predominance of males (59.6%) with a mean age of 37 years, many residing in urban areas (79.9%) and having low educational attainment (27.3% with only elementary education). The leading cause of injury was road traffic accidents (42.8%), with upper extremity injuries being the most common (72.2%), and a notable portion of patients reporting chronic illnesses (29%). Mental health issues were prevalent, with 35% experiencing anxiety, 24.7% stress, and 40.3% depression, highlighting the critical need for integrated mental health support in the rehabilitation process for these patients. Conclusion: - The existing research clearly highlights the significant mental health burden experienced by individuals with orthopedic conditions. Addressing these challenges is critical for improving their overall well-being and quality of life. However, further research is needed to refine our understanding of the specific factors contributing to these conditions and to develop tailored interventions that address the diverse needs of this population Keywords: - post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, prevalence.Item Challenges and Opportunities of Pastoral Counseling:The Case of Selected Evangelical Churches In Addis Ababa.(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Lidya Solomon; Sewalem Tsega (PhD)This study's primary objective was to investigate the challenges and opportunities facing counseling in Addis Ababa's evangelical churches. The research design used in the study was qualitative. conducted semi-structured in depth interviews with ten pastors, including male and female representatives from five evangelical congregations, who were chosen purposfully. With regard to their positions, pastoral counselors' experiences, perceptions, and points of view were to be thoroughly documented using this methodology. The investigation's findings from these interviews included obstacles including the stigma attached to mental health problems, lack of professional training in counseling and the complex interplay between spiritua l and psychological and also opportunities including demand for counseling, collaboration with mental health professionals and holistic approach. Keywords: Pastoral Counseling,Evangelical Churches,Challenges, Opportunities, Mental Health, Psychology, Addis Ababa, Theology, Stigma, Behavioral Science, Training NeedsItem Relationship Between Interparental Conflict and Social Adjustment Among Students in Minilik Ii Secondary School(Addis Ababa University, 2024-12) Melat Assegid; Sewalem Tsega (PhD)The primary objective of this study was to examine the relationship between parental conflict and social adjustment among students at Minilik II Secondary School. The study included 355 students (147 males, 208 females) in grades 9-12. Researchers utilized the Children's Perception of Inter-parental Conflict Scale (CPIC) and the Social Adjustment Scale, translating and pilot-testing the instruments, which demonstrated high reliability (Cronbach's α = 0.918). Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses revealed that students perceived low levels of parental conflict properties, with moderate levels of conflict threat and low self-blame. Social adjustment among students was found to be at a moderate level. A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between parental conflict and social adjustment (r = 0.699, p < .001). Regression analysis indicated that conflict property and threat significantly predicted social adjustment, while self-blame and living situation did not. Gender differences emerged in social adjustment, with female students demonstrating higher adjustment levels compared to male students. However, no statistically significant differences in parental conflict were found based on gender or age. Conclusions and recommendations were drawn from the findings. Keywords: Inter-parental conflict, conflict property, self-blame, threat, social adjustmentItem Prevalence of Depression, Anxiety, and Stress among People Seeking Treatment at an Outpatient Level at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital(Addis Ababa University, 2024-10) Saron Wondimu; Assefa Berihun (PhD)This study examined the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress (DAS) among patients at the outpatient department of Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Mental health issues like DAS are frequently overlooked in outpatient settings, despite their significant impact on patients' well-being and overall health. A cross-sectional survey design was employed to collect data from 294 participants using the DASS-21 scale, a standardized tool for measuring depression, anxiety, and stress. Socio-demographic information, including age, gender, marital status, education level, income, illness duration, and the outpatient department (OPD) they attended, was also collected. The results showed that 65.3% of participants experienced depression, 60.8% anxiety, and 70.1% stress, with 26.5%, 14.6%, and 18.0% classified as extremely severe cases of depression, anxiety, and stress, respectively. Marital status, income level, and OPD department were significant factors affecting DAS levels, with divorced/widowed individuals, those earning less than 5000 Birr per month, and patients from the Oncology department reporting higher levels of mental distress. No significant differences were found based on age or education level. Patients from the Oncology department exhibited significantly higher anxiety and stress levels compared to Internal Medicine patients. These findings highlight the critical need for integrating mental health services into outpatient care settings in Ethiopia. Targeted interventions, especially for divorced/widowed individuals, low-income groups, and high-risk OPD patients, can better address patients' mental health needs and improve outcomes. Keywords Depression, Anxiety, Stress and OutpatientsItem Barriers to Utilizing Counseling Services among High School Students (The Roles of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice)(Addis Ababa University, 2024-10) Eden Assefa; Seleshi Zeleke (PhD)Adolescence, marked by significant changes, requires effective support systems, especially considering mental health challenges like academic stress and identity issues. Despite the recognition of the importance of counseling services, their uptake is hindered by factors like lack of awareness, stigma, and cultural barriers. The main aim of this study was to investigate barriers to utilizing counseling services and the roles of knowledge, attitude, and practice among high school students in Lideta Sub-city, Addis Ababa. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Addis Ababa with a total sample size of 427 study participants. The data were entered into epi-info software and analyzed using SPSS. Bi-variate and multi-variate analyses were employed using a logistic regression model. They were interpreted based on the odds ratio and level of statistical significance at a p-value of 0.05. Out of the total study participants, 63.9% heard about counseling services, 61.6% (95% CI: 56.9%- 66.1%) had a favorable attitude towards counseling services, and 39.1% (95% CI: 34.6%- 43.8%) had utilized counseling services. The logistic regression analysis indicated that those who had inadequate knowledge about counseling services were 2.50 times less likely to seek counseling services than those who had adequate knowledge (AOR= 2.50; 95%CI: (1.59- 3.90)) (p < .001). Besides, those who were learning at Balcha Abanefso were 5.23 times more likely to seek counseling services than those who were learning at Africa Hibret (AOR= 5.23; 95%CI: (2.87-9.52) with p-value < 0.001. In conclusion, the data highlights a significant awareness and positive attitude towards counseling services among the participants. However, the utilization rate of counseling services stands at only 39.1%, indicating a gap between knowledge and actual engagement with these services. Keyword: barrier, knowledge, attitude, practice, Addis Ababa