Occult Beliefs among Adolescents in a Culturally Embedded Context: Evidence from Secondary School Students in Kitui County, Kenya

Abstract

Background: Occult beliefs, including beliefs in witchcraft, supernatural forces, divination, and mystical practices, remain significant components of many cultural belief systems and may influence adolescents’ perceptions, experiences, and psychological functioning. Despite increasing interest in supernatural beliefs globally, limited empirical attention has been given to the prevalence of occult beliefs among secondary school students in Kenya, particularly within culturally rich contexts such as Kitui County. Objective: The study aimed to investigate the prevalence of occult beliefs among secondary school students in Kitui County, Kenya.
Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional research design among secondary school students from selected public schools in Kitui County. Data were collected using an adapted version of the Revised Paranormal Belief Scale (RPBS). A sample of 248 students participated in the study. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, and chi-square tests to examine prevalence patterns and demographic differences in occult beliefs.
Results: The findings indicated that occult beliefs were prevalent among students, with 61.3% demonstrating moderate levels of belief, 25.4% reporting strong belief, and 13.3% indicating no belief. Occult belief and meaning were predominantly moderate (65.7%), while exposure and experience showed substantial moderate and high levels. Form level, religious affiliation, living arrangements, and parental involvement in occult practices were significantly associated with students’ levels of occult belief, whereas age, gender, and school type showed no significant associations.
Conclusion: Occult beliefs are common among secondary school students in Kitui County and are shaped by social, cultural, and family contexts. The findings highlight the need for culturally sensitive educational and counselling interventions that support adolescents’ understanding of belief systems and psychological development.