Influence of Occupational Stress on Quality Family Relationships among Clergy: A Case of Christ is the Answer Ministries, Kenya
Keywords:
Occupational Stress, Family Relationships, Self-Care, ClergyAbstract
The role of clergy can be demanding, as they are tasked with providing spiritual guidance and support to their congregation. This
responsibility can result in occupational stress, which can affect the clergy and their family relationships. This study investigated the influence of occupational stress on quality family relationships among clergy in Christ Is The Answer Ministries, Kenya (CITAM). A pragmatist lens which informs the adoption of mixed methods research design was used. Out of a sample size of 135, 115 respondents comprising of 57 pastors, 40 spouses and 18 children participated in the study. Ethical considerations were adhered to by receiving the necessary approvals and licenses before commencing the study. Primary data was collected using questionnaires and focus group discussions which were all done online. Quantitative data was analyzed using the linear regression technique in SPSS Version 28 and presented through tables. The qualitative data was transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis approach with identification of key themes. Findings showed that the clergy families have high quality family relationships (x̅=3.4635, x = .37655). Thematic analysis revealed that having intentionality and maintaining clear boundaries between work and personal life would help clergy improve the quality of their family relationships. The study recommended that churches should collaborate with family therapists to offer therapy session to all members of the clergy.
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