Supernatural Beliefs and Psychological Well-Being among Adolescents: Insights from Secondary School Students in Kenya

Abstract

Background: Occult beliefs remain a significant cultural and psychological phenomenon that may influence how adolescents interpret life experiences, cope with challenges, and evaluate their overall well-being. Among secondary school students, understanding the relationship between belief systems and psychological functioning is important for developing culturally appropriate approaches to support adolescent mental health. Purpose: This study examined the relationship between occult beliefs and subjective well-being among secondary school students in Kitui County, Kenya.
Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional correlational design. Data were collected from 250 secondary school students, with 248 valid responses included in the final analysis. Occult beliefs were measured using an adapted version of the Revised Paranormal Belief Scale (RPBS), while subjective well-being was assessed using an adapted Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis in SPSS version 27.
Results: The findings indicated that occult beliefs were prevalent among students, with 61.3% reporting moderate levels and 25.4% reporting strong levels of occult belief. Subjective well-being varied across respondents, with both high and low levels observed. Pearson correlation analysis showed a significant negative relationship between occult beliefs and subjective well-being (r = -0.312, p < .001), indicating that higher occult beliefs were associated with lower life satisfaction.
Conclusion: The study concludes that occult beliefs are meaningfully associated with adolescent subjective well-being. Culturally sensitive psychosocial interventions that promote adaptive coping, resilience, and personal agency are recommended within school settings.