Life Events and Depression among Children from Broken Families in Northern Province of Rwanda

Background: Child and adolescent growth involves both positive and negative life events, and families play a crucial role in psychological, moral, and spiritual development. Dysfunctional or hostile families can negatively affect their mental health. Objective: The study aims to investigate Depression related of being raised from broken families among children in Rwanda’s Northern Province, focusing on the impact of family on their welfare, mental health, and advocacy. Method: The study used a questionnaire and interview guide to gather data from 120 participants in Northern Province, Rwanda. The participants were chosen from various demographics, including school setting, out-of-school framework, and parents. Descriptive statistical analysis used mean and standard deviation, while inferential statistical analysis used Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression. Results: Research shows broken families negatively impact children’s mental health, with 69.4% of participants having a depression diagnosis. Children raised in broken families have a higher risk of mental illness, while healthy families have better psychological, socioeconomic, and physical/biological status. Conclusion: Depression is common among participants raised from broken families, highlighting the significant role of families in shaping children’s psychological, socioeconomic, and biological status and the high likelihood of experiencing depression.