Abstract:
Aim: The aim of this study was to explore factors that influence intentional self-poisoning among
patients aged 15-30 years in Kericho County. The study's specific goals were to explore the
influence of family factors, on intentional self-organophosphate poisoning.
Study Design: The study adopted cross-sectional study design.
Place and Duration of Study: Study was conducted in Kericho County, health facilities for a period
of 4 months.
Methodology: 100 respondents were included in the study (88 males and 12 females).
Sample size of 100 respondents was used which was estimated population of patients who might
have been affected with poisoning during study period. Data was collected from respondents who
were attended and recovered during the study period of four months.
Data Analysis: The collected quantitative data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social
Sciences (SPSS) version 21. Correlation and regression analysis were carried out to establish
relationship between categorical variables. The analyzed data were presented in tables, charts and the corresponding thematic areas. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.
Result: The results indicated that family factors showed positive influenced on self-poisoning. had
correlation of 13.319 where significance was set at p=0.0001 indicating a high likelihood of
influencing one to self-poison.
Conclusion: This study suggested counselors to have a prediction model to classify patients at a
higher risk of self-harm by use of poisons and to focus on individual preventive strategies. Patients
in the high-risk group require referral for mental health assessment and counseling both individual
and family to alleviate helplessness and hopelessness, healthy lifestyle like come together party,
and restriction of access to poison .This will eventually reduce these cases of self-poisoning in our
Counties and Country at large.
