Relationship between PTSD and Socio-Demographic Characteristics among the Survivors of the Sinai Fire Disaster in Mukuru-Sinai Informal Settlement, Nairobi County, Kenya

This study investigated the relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and socio-demographic characteristics among survivors of the Sinai Fire disaster in Mukuru-Sinai informal settlement, Nairobi County, Kenya. Despite the prevalence of fire disasters in informal settlements, there is limited research on their psychological impact, particularly in this context. The study was guided by the Shattered Assumptions Theory, which posits that traumatic events can disrupt individuals' core beliefs about the world's benevolence, meaningfulness, and their self-worth. A descriptive correlational design was employed, with a sample of 378 survivors selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a mixed-methods approach, including a questionnaire with the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) and key informant interviews. Chi-square tests were conducted to examine associations between PTSD and socio-demographic factors. The findings revealed significant relationships between PTSD symptoms and gender (p=0.012), age (p=0.014), and employment status (p=0.008), but no significant association with education level (p=0.343). Women, older individuals, and those experiencing employment instability were found to be more vulnerable to developing PTSD. The study concluded that socio-demographic characteristics play a crucial role in the prevalence of PTSD symptoms among disaster survivors, highlighting the complex interplay between individual characteristics and trauma response. Recommendations include designing targeted interventions for high-risk groups, integrating mental health support with employment assistance programs, developing age-appropriate PTSD interventions, and conducting regular assessments of socio-demographic risk factors to inform resource allocation and intervention planning. These findings underscore the importance of considering diverse socio-demographic factors in assessing PTSD risk and designing interventions for disaster-affected populations in informal settlements. Keywords: Socio-Demographic Characteristics, Disaster, Mukuru-Sinai Informal Settlement