LONELINESS AS DETERMINANT OF PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS OF AWAITING-TRIAL INMATES IN LAFIA CORRECTIONAL CENTRE, NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of loneliness on Psychological Distress of awaiting trial inmates in Lafia Correctional Centre, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Cross sectional Survey design was adopted for the study. 243 participants consisting of 213(87.7%) males and 30 (12.7%) females were randomly selected using purposive sampling technique. The instruments used for the study were the Perceived Social Support Scale and Psychological Distress scale. Data collected were analyzed using linear regression analysis. One hypothesis was tested and the results of the hypothesis indicated that loneliness (Friends support, Family support, and Significant support) significantly influence Psychological distress among awaiting trial-inmates in Lafia correctional center, Nasarawa State, Nigeria, and the result was supported (R2=110, F(3,239)=9.862; p=.000]. It was concluded that, psychological treatments components such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Behavior Modification should be included as active rehabilitation and reformation programs of awaiting-trial inmates in Nigeria. This will contribute to the evidence-based approach to rehabilitation. The researchers recommended among others that awaiting trial inmates should be educated on the influence of loneliness on psychological distress.