Counseling Psychology
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Item Mental Illness Beliefs, Perceived Stigma, and Delayed help-seeking behavior among Psychiatric patients in selected public Hospitals of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia(Addis Ababa University, 2025-11) Tsion Chala; Dame AberaDelayed help-seeking behavior among individuals with mental illness remains a critical barrier to timely psychiatric intervention, particularly in low-resource settings like Ethiopia, where cultural beliefs, stigma, and socio-demographic factors play a significant role. This study aimed to examine prevailing mental illness beliefs, assess the extent and duration of delayed help-seeking, determine the role of perceived stigma, and identify socio-demographic and clinical factors contributing to delays. A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed, and a total of 399 participants were selected using stratified systematic sampling to ensure diverse representation. Data were collected through standardized questionnaires measuring mental illness beliefs, perceived stigma, and help-seeking behavior. Binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify predictors of delay. The findings indicated that many patients perceived mental illness as a form of religious punishment. A majority of respondents agreed with statements reflecting supernatural etiology (M = 3.58, SD = 0.49) and punishment for sin (M = 3.48, SD = 0.50), suggesting that culturally embedded spiritual beliefs strongly influence perceptions of mental illness. The mean scores for supernatural (M = 3.62, SD = 0.31), biomedical (M = 3.64, SD = 0.33), and psychosocial beliefs (M = 3.65, SD = 0.30) indicated moderate endorsement across all domains. The logistic regression model was statistically significant, χ²(16) = 334.78, p < .001, with a Nagelkerke R² of .836, indicating strong predictive power. Education level, perceived stigma (Exp(B) = 13,649.66, p < .001), and mental illness beliefs (Exp(B) = 31.27, p = .025) were significant predictors of delayed help-seeking. Additional factors such as gender, marital status, and place of residence also contributed to the delay. Overall, the results demonstrate that deeply rooted cultural and religious beliefs, together with perceived stigma, substantially influence patients’ decisions to delay professional treatment. These findings emphasize the need for culturally sensitive mental health education, community-based stigma reduction initiatives, and equitable access to psychiatric services. It is recommended that community awareness campaigns utilize media and cultural platforms to promote mental health as a treatable condition and foster public acceptance. Keywords: Help-seeking behavior, Mental illness beliefs, Perceived stigma, Psychiatric patients, Socio-demographic factorsItem Psychosocial Consequence of Post- Traumatic Stress Disorder on Special police Forces that are Admitted at Police Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia .(Addis Ababa University, 2023-11) Yemaryamwork Senay; Sewalem TsegaMany trauma related researches focus on the impact of the trauma on the individual’s mental health disturbance. Less is known how the everyday Social Life as well as psychological wellbeing is disturbed and negatively impacted by PTSD on special police forces who are admitted at hospital settings. This study aimed to identify the psychological and social impact resulting as a consequence of PTSD on special police forces who are admitted at Police Hospital found in AA, Ethiopia. Institute based cross sectional study is conducted by using purposive sampling. The instrument used to collect data in order to measure PTSD Level and the impact of PTSD on Psychosocial Functioning of the Law Enforcement Forces was PCL-M with a cut point score of 32 & IPF with a cut point score of 11-30=mild impairment, 31-50= moderate impairment ,51-80= severe impairment, 81-100= extreme impairment respectively. The results showed that among the police officers who were eligible for the study 36.9% of them are seen with PTSD Symptoms and their psychological and social functioning was impacted. According to the Inventory of Psychosocial Functioning (IPF), the patient’s psychosocial status was assessed by the subscales romantic relationships, family, work, friendships and socializing, parenting, education and self-care. PTSD level of the participants has impacted their family life, self - care and friendship & socializing. The impairment is found to be mild with a mean score of 19.9, 24.16, 24.17 respectively. Their romantic relationship and parenting impairment is moderate with a mean score of 39.25, 35.44 respectively and the education and work life impairment is found to be severe with a mean score of (55.33, 72.59 respectively).Item The Psycho Social Effects of Urban Gentrification on Displaced Residents in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia(Addis Ababa University, 2025-10) Simret Guangul; Assefa BerihunA growing body of research has documented the economic and spatial consequences of displacement, but less attention has been given to its psychological costs. This study investigates the lived experiences and mental health impacts of forced resettlement resulting from urban regeneration in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Using a qualitative phenomenological design, in-depth interviews were conducted with displaced residents selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Inductive thematic analysis supported by ATLAS.ti software revealed major themes: mental health impacts; displacement as loss and disempowerment; economic devastation and disconnection; physical health effects; disruption and fragmentation of the social fabric; and coping mechanisms and unmet needs. Participants described experiences of worry, sadness, hopelessness, and powerlessness stemming from job loss, weakened social ties, and inadequate support systems. While some relied on faith and community as coping mechanisms, others turned to substance use to manage distress reflecting both vulnerability and resilience. The findings highlight that urban gentrification–induced displacement extends beyond housing insecurity, generating profound psychosocial consequences. Addressing these impacts requires that urban planners and policymakers move beyond physical resettlement to promote mental health and social well-being.Item The Relationship between Personality Traits and Burnout among Hibret Bank Employees at Head the Office(Addis Ababa University, 2025-10) Temesgen Waltenegus; Sewalem TsegaThe main objective of the study was to assess the relationship between personality traits and burnout among Hibret Bank employees at the Head office. It specifically examined the relationships among five personality traits and burnout dimensions. Additionally, socio-demographic factors were assessed in order to examine the degree of employee burnout. The research approach design used was quantitative. A basic random sample strategy was used to choose 162 individuals in total. The t-test, ANOVA, and Pearson Correlation coefficients were statistical methods used to examine the data in order to answer the study's research questions. As a result, the current study produced a number of significant findings regarding personality traits, burnout, and socio-demographic factors. First, employees who had high levels of professional effectiveness (M=5.04) and moderate levels of emotional weariness (M=3.02) and cynicism (M=3.17) showed that they were somewhat stressed and detached but still had high levels of professional efficacy. Second, the burnout dimension of professional efficacy was positively correlated with the attribute of openness to experience. Third, despite individuals with 5–10 years of work experience reporting slightly greater levels of emotional exhaustion, studies of the socio-demographic factors showed no significant differences in burnout dimensions across gender, age, marital status, or educational background. The findings highlighted the importance of organizational interventions focused on workload management, role clarity, and employee support, alongside strategies that leverage individual strength such as openness and professional development, to sustain professional efficacy and reduce risk of burnout. Keywords: Burnout, Emotional Exhaustion, Cynicism, Professional efficacy, Personality TraitsItem The Interrelationship between Spirituality, Burnout, and Psychological Well-being among Mental Health Professionals in Addis Ababa Governmental Hospitals(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06) Hanan Hussein; Abera GetachewThe purpose of this study was to explore the intricate relationship between spirituality, burnout, and psychological well-being among mental health professionals (MHPs) in selected government hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Recognizing the emotionally demanding nature of mental health services, the study explore how spirituality may serve as a protective factor against burnout and a promoter of well-being. Employing a quantitative, correlational design, data were collected from 217 participants using standardized instruments: Spiritual Experience Indexrevised, Maslach burnout inventory (MBI) and Ryff’s Psychological Well-being scale (PWB). Both descriptive and inferential statistics including Pearson correlation, MANOVA, Independent sample t-test and multiple regression were applied to examine relationship and demographic variation across gender, age, marital status and professional experience. Result reflect a high prevalence of burnout, particularly emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. Spirituality demonstrated a significant inverse relationship with burnout (r=.-45, p<.001) and a positive association with psychological well-being (r=.57, p<.001). Regression analysis confirmed that spirituality significantly predicted lower burnout and higher psychological well-being, even after controlling for demographic factors. Additionally, gender based difference particularly in level of spiritual openness. The study highlights the need for institutional strategies that integrate spirituality and mental health support as part of professional wellbeing programs. It emphasizes the importance of evidence based interventions to reduce burnout and promote sustainable mental health. These findings also underscore the necessity for future longitudinal and mixed method research to further explore causal dynamics and context specific protective factors in low resource healthcare settings. Keywords: Spirituality, Burnout, Mental health professional, Psychological Well-beingItem Pyscho-Social Wellbeing and Diabetics Management Behavior Among Type I Adult Diabetes Patients: A Study of the Ethiopian Diabetes Association.(Addis Ababa University, 2025-09) Hermela Solomon; Nimona ShakoThis study examines the psychosocial well-being and diabetes management behaviors among Ethiopian adults with Type 1 diabetes, focusing on depression, anxiety, stress, diabetes-related fear, and self-care practices. A cross-sectional design was employed, with 342 participants recruited through stratified random sampling from the Ethiopian Diabetes Association in Addis Ababa. Standardized measures, including the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS), Fear of Diabetes Scale (FDS), Diabetes Distress Scale (DSS), Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA), and Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire (DSMQ), were used to assess key variables. Results revealed significant psychosocial challenges, with 48.5% of participants reporting mild psychological distress and 7.6% experiencing severe distress on the DASS. Diabetes-specific measures indicated even greater severity, with 71.1% reporting high stress on the DSS and 15.8% exhibiting severe fear on the FDS. While 81.9% demonstrated moderate self-care adherence on the SDSCA, the DSMQ identified 24.3% with severe management difficulties. Regression analyses highlighted strong predictive relationships, particularly between diabetes-related fear and stress (R² = 0.63, p < 0.001). The findings underscore the disproportionate psychosocial burden in this population compared to Western samples, significant gaps between perceived and actual self-management competencies, and the critical role of diabetes-specific fears in overall distress. These results emphasize the need for integrated psychosocial support within diabetes care in low-resource settings. The study contributes to global health literature by characterizing unique mental health challenges in Ethiopia’s diabetes population and provides empirical support for culturally adapted interventions targeting disease-specific fears and stress. Keywords: Type 1 diabetes, psychosocial well-being, Diabetes management behaviorItem A Research Thesis on Early Attachment Styles and Selected Demographic Factors as Determinants of Communication Styles of young adults Romantic Relationships in Arada Subcity, Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2025-10) Lidiya Sileshi; Daniel TeferaThis study explored how early attachment experiences influence communication patterns in romantic relationships among young adults in Arada Subcity, Addis Ababa. Guided by attachment theory, which suggested that caregiver bonds shape later social and emotional development, the research examined the link between early attachment styles and communication behaviors in intimate partnerships. A cross-sectional design was applied with 424 participants selected through stratified random sampling. Attachment styles were measured using the Experiences in Close Relationships-Revised (ECR-R), while communication tendencies were assessed through the Communication Styles Questionnaire (CSQ). Analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multinomial logistic regression. Findings indicated that secure attachment was most prevalent, followed by anxious-preoccupied, dismissive-avoidant, and fearful-avoidant patterns. Assertive communication emerged as the dominant style, though passive, aggressive, and passive-aggressive tendencies were also observed. Results demonstrated a significant association between attachment and communication styles, with regression analysis confirming that attachment style remained a significant predictor even when sex and age were controlled. Securely attached individuals were more likely to communicate assertively, while insecure attachment styles were linked with maladaptive patterns. These outcomes reinforce the central premise of attachment theory and underscore the enduring impact of early relational experiences on adult intimacy. The study suggested practical applications for relationship counseling, youth-focused education, and psychological interventions aimed at enhancing communication and relational outcomes among young adults. By illuminating the pathways between attachment and communication, the findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how early bonds shape relational dynamics in emerging adulthood. Keywords: Attachment styles, communication styles, young adults, romantic relationships, assertiveness, Addis Ababa, EthiopiaItem Stress among undergraduate medical students at Addis Ababa university Prevalence, cause and coping mechanisms(Addis Ababa University, 2025-10) Liyana Behailu; Dame AberaThe purpose of this study was to assess Stress among undergraduate medical students at Addis Ababa university Prevalence, cause and coping mechanisms. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed. Among 875(year 1 to 6) medical students in the College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine Using Cochran formula 323 sample size was determined and stratified random sampling technique was used. Quantitative data was collected through a structured self-administered questionnaire that incorporated the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Medical Student Stressor Questionnaire (MSSQ-20), and Brief COPE Scale. Data was analyzed using descriptive and binary logistic regression with software SPSS version 26. The findings revealed that 32.8% of respondents experienced high perceived stress. Academic-related stressors were the strongest predictors of stress (AOR = 2.505, p = 0.005). Maladaptive coping strategies, particularly self-blame (AOR = 1.283, p = 0.034), increased stress, whereas adaptive coping strategies such as seeking informational support (AOR = 0.736, p = 0.039) and acceptance (AOR = 0.799, p = 0.044) reduced it. The study concludes that academic pressure and maladaptive coping mechanisms significantly contribute to stress among medical students, underscoring the need for interventions to strengthen adaptive coping and promote mental well-being. Keywords: Stress, Coping Mechanisms, Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study, Medical Students, Addis Ababa UniversityItem Psychosocial Challenges and Coping Mechanisms of Parents of Children with Down Syndrome at Abune Baslios Primary and Middle School(Addis Ababa University, 2025-10) Mekdes Shewakena; Moges AyeleThe primary objective of the study was to understand the psychosocial challenges and coping mechanisms of parents of children with Down syndrome at Abune Basiliyos Primary and middle school. The Research utilizes qualitative research method. FGD, Interview and observations used for data collection purpose, the study participants purposively selected for the study. There were seven participants for in-depth interview and one focus group with four participants. The data analysis used a thematic approach to identify groups. Five themes are identified for this research this are Emotional and Psychological Reactions to Diagnosis, Social Challenge, Family Relationships, Coping Mechanisms and Fear and worry about the future. The finding of this study indicated that when parents raising a child with Down syndrome they face psychological, and social challenges. Most of parents who has a child with a Down syndrome use coping mechanisms to overcome that challenge. Key Words: Parenting, Down syndrome, social challenge, psychological challenge, coping mechanism.Item Adverse Childhood Experience and Mental Health Concern among Clients Visiting Erq Ma’ed Psychological Services(Addis Ababa University, 2025) Betelehem Bekele; Belay TeferaAdverse childhood experiences (ACEs) including physical and emotional abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction have lasting impacts on adult mental health. This study examined the re-lationship between ACEs and mental health concerns, focusing on depression, anxiety, and stress among clients visiting Erq Ma’ed Psychological Services. A total of 70 clients who met inclusion criteria participated in the study; since all eligible individuals were included, no sampling tech-nique was applied. Data were collected using the Adverse Childhood Experiences International Questionnaire (ACE-IQ) and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Analyses in-cluded correlations, chi-square tests, multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA), and multiple regressions. Results showed that 85.7% of participants reported exposure to high levels of ACEs (4+ ACEs). High ACE exposure was significantly associated with greater depression and anxie-ty, though stress did not differ significantly across exposure levels. Sexual abuse, emotional abuse, parental separation or death, and family member incarceration were found to uniquely predict higher depression and anxiety scores. Gender analysis revealed that women reported significantly higher mental health distress related to interpersonal ACEs compared to men.The findings suggest that cumulative and interpersonal childhood adversities contribute substantially to adult psychological distress. Discussion highlights the consistency of these findings with glob-al evidence linking ACEs to adult psychopathology, emphasizing the urgent need for trauma-informed and gender-sensitive mental health interventions within the Ethiopian context. The study concludes that early screening for ACEs in counseling settings is essential for effective prevention and treatment. Future research should include larger and more diverse samples, em-ploy longitudinal designs to clarify causal pathways, and explore protective factors such as resil-ience and social support that may buffer the effects of childhood adversity. Keywords: adverse childhood experiences, mental health, depression, anxiety, stress, gender dif-ferences.Item Depression, anxiety, and stress level of Cargivers of children with autism spectrum disorder in three selected school in Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2025) Bethesida Yared; Moges AyeleThis study examines of depression, anxiety, and stress level of caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder in three selected schools in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia involving 85 participants. The data were analyzed quantitatively. Most of the participants in this study were 44(51.8%) female while 41(48.2%) were male. The current study finds that out of 85 parents assessed with the DASS, 12.9% were within the normal range, 11.8% had mild depression, 29.4% had moderate depression, 27.1% had severe depression, and 18.8% had extremely severe depression. Overall, 87.1% of parents experienced some degree of depression above the normal range, reflecting a substantial mental health burden among caregivers of children with ASD. Based on the DASS assessment of 85 parents, 12.9% were in the normal range, 14.1% had mild anxiety, 37.6% experienced moderate anxiety, 22.4% experienced severe anxiety, and 12.9% experienced extremely severe anxiety. In total, 87.1% of parents reported anxiety levels above the normal range, indicating a markedly high prevalence of anxiety among caregivers of children with ASD. Among the 85 parents assessed using the DASS scale, 14.1% were within the normal range, 12.9% reported mild stress, 27.1% reported moderate stress, 34.1% reported severe stress, and 11.8% reported extremely severe stress. Taken together, 87.9% of participants experienced some degree of stress above the normal range, indicating a high burden of stress among parents of children with ASD.Item The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Anxiety and Depression Symptoms in Breast Cancer Patients at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College(Addis Ababa University, 2025) Bezawit Girma; Moges AyeleBreast cancer remains a major public health challenge in Ethiopia, with women often experiencing significant levels of anxiety and depression that adversely affect their quality of life and treatment outcomes. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been recognized as a promising approach to address these psychological burdens. This study explored the effectiveness of CBT in reducing anxiety and depression among women with breast cancer at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College in Addis Ababa. A randomized controlled trial design was employed, comparing an intervention group that received CBT with a control group that received standard care. Baseline measures of anxiety and depression were collected, and post-intervention outcomes were analyzed using standardized instruments. The findings revealed that CBT led to a significant reduction in both anxiety and depression symptoms compared to standard care. Women in the intervention group showed greater improvement, with a mean reduction of -6.8 in depression scores versus -3.9 in the control group, and a decrease in anxiety scores of -4.3 compared to -2.8. The odds of high post-intervention anxiety were reduced by 52%, and depression was lowered by 8% in the intervention group, underscoring the cross-cultural applicability and effectiveness of CBT. These results highlight the feasibility and acceptability of integrating structured, culturally adapted CBT into oncology care in Ethiopia. The study recommends the inclusion of CBT as part of routine cancer treatment, supported by capacity building, policy integration, and further research to evaluate long-term outcomes and scalability in low-resource settings. Keywords: Breast cancer, anxiety, depression, cognitive behavioral therapy, randomized control design, EthiopiaItem Lived Experiences of Suicide Survivors visiting Eka Kotebe general Hospital(Addis Ababa University, 2025) Fikrte Getahun; Moges A.The World Health Organization predicted 1.53 million suicides by 2020, highlighting the need for global public health intervention. In low- and middle-income countries like Ethiopia, stigma, insufficient mental health care, and low knowledge impede prompt intervention. This study aims to address this knowledge gap by examining the experiences of early adulthood who experience suicide visited Eak Kotebe General Hospital, aiming to shed light on psychological, social, and cultural implications. This study uses a phenomenological approach to examine the lived experiences of early adulthoods who attempted suicide survivors who are currently receiving treatment at Eak kotebe General Hospital. The research conducted site is a leading mental health facility. The sample was 8 participants, with purposive sampling for those who meet eligibility criteria. Data collection tool was interviews the study emphasizes that suicide is not attributable to a singular factor but rather reflects a complex and cumulative process that encompasses emotional, relational, cultural, and socio-economic dimensions. Understanding these nuanced experiences is essential for the development of effective, compassionate, and comprehensive strategies for prevention and follow-up.Item A Study on the Relationship between Self-Efficacy and Locus of Control in Career Decision Making: The Case in Nifas Silk Poly Technic College(Addis Ababa University, 2025) Alemayehu Gabisa; Tigist W.This study examined the relationship between general self-efficacy (GSE) and locus of control (LOC) and career decision-making (CDM) among students at Nifas Silk Polytechnic College in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Guided by Bandura’s social-cognitive theory and Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), the study sought to determine the extent to which these psychological factors predict students’ ability to make effective career choices. A descriptive–correlational research design was employed, and data were collected from 310 randomly selected TVET students using validated scales for GSE, LOC, and CDM. Descriptive statistics revealed that 63.2% of students had moderate CDM, while 61.6% reported low GSE. Correlation analysis using Spearman’s rho indicated a significant positive relationship between GSE and CDM (r = .477, p < .001) and a weaker but significant positive relationship between LOC and CDM (r = .167, p = .003). Multiple regression analysis showed that the model including GSE and LOC was significant (F(2,307) = 94.43, p < .001), explaining 38.1% of the variance in CDM. GSE emerged as the strongest predictor of CDM (β = .610, p < .001), whereas LOC was not a significant predictor (β = .064, p = .155). The findings highlight the central role of self-efficacy in shaping students’ career decision-making skills and suggest that interventions aimed at enhancing students’ self-efficacy may improve their career planning and outcomes. The study recommends integrating self-efficacy–building strategies and career guidance services into TVET programs to better prepare students for future employment. Keywords: Career Decision-Making; General Self-Efficacy; Locus of Control; Career GuidanceItem The Role of Social Support and Resilience in Enhancing Mental Health Recovery among Vulnerable Refugees in Ura Refugee Camp, Benshagul Gumuz Region, Ethiopia(Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2025-06) Belayneh Maschal; Abera Tibebu ( PhD)This mixed-method Study examines how social support and resilience improve mental health recovery among 246 vulnerable in Ura refugee Camp, Ethiopia. With quantitative survey and qualitative interview; the study explores the role of family, friends and social networks in reducing psychological distress. Culturally facilitated resilience strategies like ritual program and storytelling are influenced by persistent displacement and lack of basic needs and security. Severe mental health challenges persist; 59% reported post-traumatic stress disorder and 50% reported Depressions worsened through overcrowding and unemployment. Gender difference occurred with female experiencing higher stress (p=0.014) and men avoid mental services due to stigma. The result advocate community lead interventions by incorporating traditional copping practice with formal mental health support together with structural reforms those who are addressing resource access and employment. The study underlines improving communal strength to design justifiable recovery model in low resources displacement context.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. vi