Counseling Psychology
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Item 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 AbabaItem The Knowledge and Attitude of Counselors Toward Mental Health Counseling and The Practice of Mental Health Counseling Provision: The Case of three selected Government Hospitals in Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2024-10) Eyob Ali; Dame Abera (PhD)This research aims to investigate the knowledge and attitudes of counselors towards mental health counseling and how mental health counseling is provided in their institutions. The study seeks to explore how counselors perceive mental health counselling issues, their understanding of various mental health counseling approaches, and their preparedness to provide effective mental health counselling services. And to assess the present situation and future expectations, on the practice of mental health counseling and the knowledge and attitude of counseling providers towards the practice of mental health counseling. In this study exploratory case-study approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with mental health counseling providers from diverse backgrounds and seating. The practice of mental health counseling in all selected institutions is functioning with a limited number of professionals and with inadequate infrastructures. Even though there are a lot of therapeutic modalities it is possible to conclude that the method of their choice is mainly cognitive behavioral therapy. Most of the counselors in the study sites are graduates from well-recognized universities and the study suggested that the dearth of handiness in training and not being able to be certified in different therapeutic approaches is hindering the practice of mental health counseling. As the study indicates, the practice of mental health counseling services in the study sites is positive and employees are energetic in providing the service regardless of clients' beliefs and cultural background. in collaboration with a multi-disciplinary team.Item Experiences of Emotional Disturbances among Male Military Personnel at Ethiopian Armed Force Comprehensive and Specialized Hospital(Addis Ababa University, 2024-10) Mekdes Yalew; Assefa Berihun (PhD)Mental health issues are prevalent globally, particularly affecting individuals in the armed forces. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress among military personnel at the Ethiopian Armed Force Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Across-sectional survey design was employed. The data was examined with descriptive statistical methods such as frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, as well as inferential statistical method such as one-Way ANOVA. involving 196 male military personnel. It revealed that 40.8% of respondents reported symptoms of depression ,47% reported anxiety, and 17.8% reported stress. Further analysis indicated that 17.3% experienced mild depression ,15.8% moderate ,4.6% severe, and 3.1% extremely severe. Similarly, anxiety levels were categorized as mild (16.8%), moderate (22.4%), severe (5.1%), and extremely severe (3.1%). Stress levels were reported as mild (9.7%), moderate (7.1%), and severe (1%). These findings highlight the significant prevalence of mental health challenges among Ethiopian military personnel, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions and support services to address these issues and promote the well-being of those serving in the armed forces. This study also reveals a complex interplay of socio-demographic factors and emotional disturbance among military personnel. While age and financial income have significant difference in the level of depression, having children also have significance difference in level of stress, other socio-demographic characteristics, such as marital status, level of education and work experience, didn’t show significant difference with depression, anxiety or stress. Based on the research male military personnel above 55 years old have high level of depression and military have four children have low stress level. Key words; Emotional disturbance, depression, anxiety, stress, male military personnelItem Secondary Traumatic Stress and Coping Mechanisms among Mental Health Professionals Working in Different Settings in Addis Ababa: A Cross-sectional Study(Addis Ababa University, 2024-11) Mihret Luleseged; Kassahun Habtamu (PhD)This study investigated the prevalence and associated factors of secondary traumatic stress as well as coping mechanisms among mental health professionals in Addis Ababa, working in different settings such as governmental hospitals, psychiatry speciality clinics and psychotherapy centers. Using stratified random sampling, 203 participants were selected for the study. The study employed a cross-sectional survey design. Socio-demographic questionnaire , self –developed instruments , Empathy assessment scale , Secondary traumatic stress scale , Life threatening event –Q and Brief cope were administerd . Data were analysed using descriptive statistics (such as percentage and frequency tables) and binary logstic regression. The findings revealed that the prevalence of STS among mental health professionals in Addis Ababa was 36 .9 % ,Female gender , higher Empathy level , personal history of trauma and personal history of psychiatric disorder were found to be significant predictors of STS. Emotion focused coping particularly turning to religion and getting emotional support emerged as vital coping mechanisms. Addictive behaviors were rarely employed. To better manage secondary traumatic stress, mental health institutions should implement routine screening, provide targeted resources, and offer ongoing training, with an emphasis on problem-focused coping. Building resilience through mindfulness and self-care, and tailoring interventions to professionas ’ demographics such as gender , are also recommended. Further research on the role of the identified significant predictors of STS such as female gender , Empathy , personal psychiatric disorder and personal history of trauma and secondary traumatic stress is essential for developing effective preventive interventions. Keywords: Secondary Traumatic Stress, coping mechanisms, mental health professionals, Addis AbabaItem The Prevalence of Depression and Associated Factors among People Living With Hiv Taking Antiretroviral Treatment At Menelik Ii Comprehensive Specalized Hospital(Addis Ababa University, 2023-12) Meheret Gezahagen; Assefa Berihun (PhD)Depression is a prevalent mental healthcare problem and a common cause of disability worldwide. Globally many people are exposed to different psychological problems because of different reasons. One of the psychological disorders is depression. Ethiopia is one of the sub-Saharan countries highly affected by HIV, though the prevalence decreased from 1.5% in 2011 to 1.16%in 2017, it is still a great public health problem. The general objective of this study was to examine the experience of depression and predictive factors among HIV patients taking antiretroviral treatment at Menelik II comprehensive specialized hospital. Methodologically, quantitative research design, specifically, descriptive approach has been used in the collection of data in order to test hypothesis. The study was conducted from March to August, 2023 in Addis Ababa Menelik II Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. A total of 418 illegible study participants were assessed. According to the finding obtained by this study the overall, the level of Depression in Menelik II Comprehensive Specialized Hospital among People living with HIV/AIDS attending in ART the prevalence of depression Among the respondents 155 (40.2%) were depressed (95%CI:28.5-37.5%)usingPHQ-9 Depression were identified as dependent factors were significantly associated (P-value <0.05) with peoples who are living with HIV/AIDS on ART. In this study, nearly half of the patients in the ART were depressed. Females, divorced patients, participants who are poor social support and HIV-related perceived stigma were significantly associated with depression. Although the burden of depression is high among HIV-positive patients, itis under diagnosed and undertreated in the ART. Based on the above findings, the investigator recommended the following points to health providers, to link those patients who had positive results for depression, other co-morbid illness, divorced patients, participants who are poor social support and HIV-related perceived stigma for care and psycho-therapy at psychiatry clinics to give concern on mental health along with medical illness, Menelik II Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Addis Ababa Ethiopia and other stakeholders should develop plan for integration work. Key words: Depression, HAART, antiretroviral therapy, HIV/AIDS, Menelik II Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Ethiopian 2023Item The Psychological Consequences of Perinatal Loss among Women(Addis Ababa University, 2024-05) Metasebia Tesfaye; Nimona Shaka (Ass. Prof.)Perinatal losses have significant, life-changing events on women resulting in huge psychological consequences that can greatly impact them in many ways. This phenomenological study explores the psychological consequences of perinatal loss among women. Unstructured in-depth interviews were conducted with 8 women who are members of Ye-Enatoch Weg Facebook group and live in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Being guided by a phenomenological thematic analysis methodology, the study identified two key themes on the lived experiences of the participants on perinatal loss. Participants expressed feelings of shock, confusion, disbelief, pain and searching for answers as immediate reaction to their perinatal loss experiences. They also expressed struggling with guilt & blame, disenfranchised grief, and relationship difficulties as a delayed reaction to their experience of perinatal loss. The implications for improved counseling & support services, promoting healthy coping mechanisms, incorporating spiritual practices in the counseling practice, education and awareness for healthcare providers & professionals are well discussed in this research. The finding also underscored the need for counseling and emphatic individualized care to support women in the healing process of copying the psychological consequences of perinatal loss.Item Prevalence, Contributing Factors, and Psychological Consequences of Psychoactive Substance Use among High School Students in Kolfe Keraniyo Sub-City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Yemisrach Lakew; Nimona Shaka (Ass.Prof.)Psychoactive substances are composites or chemicals that cause health and social problems (containing addiction). Substance use by youths causes a massive burden on individuals, families, and communities. The objective of this research is to assess the prevalence, factor, and psychological consequences of psychoactive substance use among students in the Kolfe Keraniyo sub-city, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. An Institution-based cross-sectional study conducted from May 1, 2023- May 30, 2023, among 394 students who attended at Kolfe Keraniyo sub-city using multi-stage sampling techniques. Data entered into the Epi-data version 3.1 and data analyzed using the statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 26. The SPSS analysis employed both descriptive (mean, standard deviation, and proportion) and Inferential statistics such as chi-square test of association assess the association between psychoactive substance usage across various independent variables of the study. The p-values of 0.05 or lower taken to declare the presence of association between two variables. This study conducted with 394 respondents, with a response rate of 98.71%. Based on the analysis, this study revealed that the prevalence of psychoactive substance user among high school students were 117 (30.5%). Of this 25.5%, 22.1%, 24.0%, 3.10%, and 3.4% were used alcoholic drink, cigarette, kchat cannabis, and other psychoactive substances in their lifetime respectively. Similarly, about 78 (66.67%) male and 39 (33.33%) female students use substance in their lifetime. Living conditions of students (p = 0.000), student’s family conditions (p = 0.000), family members using substance (p = 0.000), and friends using substance (p = 0.000) were statistically associated with substance use in high school students. Health experts, non-governmental organizations, educational institutions, and religious leaders should work together to educate high-school students about the risks and consequences of psychoactive substances to reduce frequency of psychoactive substance use among students. Keywords: Psychoactive Substance, High school, Student, Kolfe keraniyo sub-cityPsychoactive Substance, High school, Student, Kolfe keraniyo sub-cityItem Psychological Wellbeing of Adolescent Students Living with Single Parents: The case of Three Selected Private Schools in Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Alem Mengistu; Tamirie Andualem (PhD) AThis study aimed to assess the psychological well being of adolescent students living with single parents in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, taking three private schools in Lemuria Sub-city Wereda 13. The participants were 235 students from grade 7 to grade 12, selected using a simple stratified technique. A sociology-demographic characteristically psychological well-being scale were employed to collect data. Quantitative methods of data analysis methods such as percentages, mean, t-test, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were employed to analyze the data. The results of the study revealed that using a mean value of the psychological well being scale, adolescents’ psychological well being is low to High. The study provides detailed insights into the psychological well being of adolescents, considering various demographic factors. It reveals that the majority of adolescents had moderate psychological well being across different aspects, with some components like autonomy and environmental mastery showing moderate and high well being. Higher-grade levels and economic status positively correlate with psychological well being, while larger family size has a negative impact. The analysis also highlights nuanced differences among single-parent adolescents based on family economic status, indicating a complex relationship between economic factors and psychological functioning. The ANOVA result showed that there is a statistically significant difference among adolescents' family economic status in terms of psychological well being. The result of independent sample t-test indicates Adolescents living with their fathers have a slightly higher mean score (M=146.18, S=27.44) compared to those living with their mothers (M=141.23, S=34.73). The chi-square test suggests a significant association between grade level and psychological well-being (df = 2, p = 0.000). Furthermore, the result of post hoc comparison revealed a significant mean difference between family economic status and psychological well being. Based on these findings, recommendations are proposed to support single-parent adolescents' psychological well being. It including interventions to promote autonomy, support personal growth and positive relations, facilitate purpose in life and self-acceptance, provide tailored support for single-parent households, and implement comprehensive mental health services. Key words: Psychological wellbeing; adolescent; single parentItem Career Counseling Service Needs, Implementation and Barriers among Secondary School Students in Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Bethelihem W/giorgis; Abera Getachew (Ass. prof.)The primary objective of this research was to identify and evaluate the needs, implementation, and challenges of career counseling service among selected secondary school in Addis Ababa. The study employed descriptive survey design using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The data was obtained using individually structured questionnaire (I-SQ) and Key informants’ Semi-structured Interview. A stratified random sampling and simple random sampling was used to obtain 397 students from Minilik II and Kokebe tsiba secondary schools to collect quantitative data while, purpose sampling technique were employed to select the two school counselors and two vice principals for the qualitative data collection. To analyze the quantitative data descriptive and inferential statistics were employed while, the collected semi-structured interviews for the qualitative data analyzed by using content analysis. Findings of this study revealed career Counseling need of students are high. T-test result show female students need career counseling services are more than male (t = -3.487, p = 0.001). And the one-way ANOVA results shows that the needs of students for CCS differ according to their grade levels (F=3.105, p=0.027). In general, this study results show career Counseling services in schools is not well established and provided to accommodate the needs of the students. The services are limited due to a lot of reasons such as student knowledge and awareness about services, there is shortage human resource of counselors, Lack of clear guideline and role of counselors, lack of training to advance the quality of the services provider and inadequate material resources. This study suggests that national-level guideline and job description to implement career counseling service and train school counselor to enhance career counseling service in secondary schools. Key Words: Career; Career counseling service; Needs; Secondary School StudentItem Prevalence, Causes and Conceptualization of Sexual Harassment at East Branch of Bunna International Bank in Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2023-11) Endegena Bekele; Daniel Tefera (PhD)The objective of the study was to assess the conceptualization, prevalence, and causes of sexual harassment at the East Branch of Buna International Bank in Addis Ababa. To address this objective the study employed a mixed method approach design. This study included 166 participants selected using systematic random sampling technique from the employees working in the East Branch of Buna International Bank in Addis Ababa. Nine participants were purposively selected to address the qualitative study objectives. In the present study, (60, 38.7%) of the respondents perceived the presence of sexual harassment at the East Branch of Buna International Bank in Addis Ababa. In the present study there was statistically significant association between sexual harassment experience and gender. In this study, those who were females were 4.76 times more likely to be sexually harassed than those who were male (AOR= 4.76; 95% CI: (2.16-10.4)) with p-value = 0.000. The proportion of sexual harassment in female study participants were 40(55.6%), and in male study participants were 20 (24.1%). In this study, one-way ANOVA was conducted. Based on the one-way ANOVA result, we conclude that the mean sexual harassment score was significantly different for at least one of the age groups (F1, 153 = 14.49, p = 0.00), work experiences (F2, 152 = 12.78, p = 0.00), work positions (F2, 152 = 8.70, p = 0.00), and educational status (F3, 151 = 3.53, p = 0.016). The current study revealed that the minimum sexual harassment conceptualization score is sixteen and the maximum score is eighty. The mean and standard deviation of sexual harassment score is 54.47+14.6. Based on the mean score; the prevalence of high level of sexual harassment conceptualization was 101 (65.2%). Majority of the study participants conceptualized that if their colleague tries unwanted attempt to have sex with them that result in pleading, crying, or struggling, they will consider these attempts as a sexual harassment. For the qualitative study, a total of nine respondents were successfully involved. From the total of nine interviewed participants, six of them expressed the presence of sexual harassment in their institute. The main causes of workplace sexual harassment explained by the participants are culture (the belief or attitude or norms of the society given for females that undermine their roles) and lack of knowledge. Therefore, Buna International Bank should revise or advance the already available organizational gender sensitive strategy and allocate the necessary resources to mitigate sexual harassment prevailing in the organization. Key words: Sexual harassment, gender harassment, unwanted sexual attention, sexual coercionItem Perceived impact of work-life balance on the psychological well-being of employees of the Cooperative Bank of Oromia Head office(Addis Ababa University, 2023-10) Yeabsira Mehret; Dame Abera (PhD)The aim of this study was to evaluate the perceived impact work life balance has on the psychological wellbeing of employees at Cooperative Bank of Oromia head office. It has also assessed whether work life balance and psychological wellbeing vary by the gender, age, years of experience, and work position of employees. Positive emotional experiences at work have long been linked to improved work performance among employees. The productivity of the organization will be influenced by this individual performance. Thus, it is critical for any company to protect the psychological well-being (PWB) of its employees by fostering a healthy work life balance (WLB) that may have an impact on it. This study adopted a quantitative method in which data was collected from a sample of 281 employees. The proportionate stratified sampling method was used to select the study's participants. A descriptive survey approach was implemented to answer the study questions. For analysis and interpretation, descriptive and inferential statistics were employed. The employees exhibited a moderate work-life balance and low levels of psychological well-being, according to the results of the descriptive statistics. Work life balance and psychological wellbeing were strongly positively correlated, (r(281) = .68, p=.000). The results of the independent sample t-test indicated that there is no gender-related variation in the levels of WLB and PWB. On the other hand, WLB and PWB variation was discovered in the age, years of experience, and work position of employees based on the results of the One-way ANOVA test. The findings indicate that there is a positive link between the WLB and PWB of the CBO head office employees. The study funding suggests creating a safe place where workers feel comfortable voicing their concerns about a lack of work-life balance (WLB) as ways to enhance WLB. Additionally, workplace psychological wellbeing strategies should be given top priority for the PWB of CBO head office staff.Item Psychological Services Rendered to Adopting Families After Post- Adoption Placement: Experiences From Bethany Christian Service, Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2023-10) Robel Solomon; Belay Tefera (PhD)This study attempted to investigate the psychosocial services provided to adoptive families and children after adoption placement by Bethany Christian Services Addis Ababa. It specifically attempted to identify the reasons for adoption, psychosocial difficulties that adoptive parents encountered, their coping mechanisms, and the formal and informal services that were provided to assist these parents. The study employed a qualitative research methodology. Twenty-five participants were purposefully chosen for the interview. The adoption document including training modules, assessment tools with different age ranges, observation and reporting tools and standardized implementation guideline and the required criteria for adoption are reviewed. Besides, the researcher observed orientation sessions in which families and social workers discuss about the reason of adoption and the details of the process in which families are supposed to go. Thematic analysis of the interview data was conducted with results showing that after placement, adoptive parents encounter various social and psychological difficulties. Adoptive parents encountered lack of knowledge regarding adoption and the psychological difficulties that come with it. They also encountered lack of acceptance from others by the time they disclose their adoption plan. As a result of drawn-out procedures, they also experienced unexpected results. The stigma and prejudice that adoptive parents most encountered from the community were a result of the adoption. Post-placement support for adopting families can be greatly aided by psychological services. Through the services offered, families can navigate the difficulties of adoption and deal with psychological challenges they can face because of the adoption.Item Factors that Contribute to Suicidal Attempt among High School Students(Addis Ababa University, 2022) Manyahilshal Haile; Seleshi Zeleke(PhD)The purpose of this study was to explore the major factors that contribute to suicidal attempt among high school students in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Suicide is a serious but preventable public health problem that results in social, emotional, and economic consequences in families, friends, and colleagues. The study employed non-probability sampling technique (namely, purposive or judgmental sampling technique) to select participants of the study. Accordingly, six high school students who had recently attempted to commit suicide participated in the study. The researcher contacted the six high school students through a school counselor who knows the adolescents very well. A semi-structured interview was used to obtain data from the participants. The interview sessions were audio recorded with the consent of the participants. The records were then transcribed verbatim and the researcher read the transcripts several times to identify the recurring themes. The qualitative data were then presented in the form of narratives that reflect the participants’ views. The findings show that lack of family support, separation from loved ones, death of loved one, hopelessness and loneliness are the major contributing factors associated with suicidal attempt among the participants. Overall, poor treatment of adolescents by parents or relatives and lack of time on the part of parents to treat their children led the adolescents to loneliness, hopelessness and finally to suicidal attempt. The study concludes that lack of family support, separation from or death of loved one, hopelessness and loneliness are the major contributing factors which led adolescents to suicidal attempt. The study suggests some ways of preventing adolescents’ suicidal attempts which may be used by the adolescents’ families, school community and policy makers. Keywords: Suicide, suicidal attempt, adolescents, contributing factors