AFRICAN JOURNAL FOR THE PSYCHOLOGICAL STUDIES OF SOCIAL ISSUES
The African Journal for the Psychological Study of Social Issues is dedicated to the Scientific investigation of psychological and social issues and related phenomenon in Africa. The journal does not undertake to specify rigidly an appropriate domain of context, but intends rather to reflect current significant research of psychology and social issues. Although the journal primarily publishes reports of empirical research, other types of papers relevant to the development of an African view of psychology (such as theoretical analyses, literature reviews, methodological notes, observations on published articles etc.) are also sought. Volumes 1-15 can be accessed HERE
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CONSTRUCTION AND VALIDATION OF INDIGENIOUS PSYCHO-NEUROLOGICAL MANUAL DEXTERITY TEST: ABANINIK PSYCHO-NEUROLOGICAL MANUAL DEXTERITY TEST
The project is designed for the construction and validation of an indigenous psycho-neurological manual dexterity test that is known as (ABANINIK PSYCHO-NEUROLOGICAL MANUAL DEXTERITY TEST). The manual dexterity test can used in the selection and placement of workers in the factories and companies. It can be used to select workers who work basically with their hands in Factories such as Bottling Companies, Pharmaceutical Companies, Confectionary Companies, and Textile Companies. This manual dexterity test can also detect the early signs of neurological breakdown (Parkinsonism). One-way Analysis of Variance and the T-test of independent measures was employed to manage the data of this research project. The findings show that there is no significant gender difference on participant performance on Abaninik psycho-neurological manual dexterity test (APMDT) The result also shows that there is significant difference on the performance of the participants in the five compartments of excellent performance, above average performance, average performance, below average performance, and very performance in Abaninik Psycho-Neurological manual dexterity test. The result also shows independent number and means of gender in the above five compartments of the new manual dexterity test. The standing of these five compartments were shown in graphical layout below. Recommendations were made among others that Future studies should examine inter-rater reliability, and other appropriate reliability indices. Evidence of content, construct, criterion-related, and predictive validity should also be established to determine the extent to which the test accurately measures manual dexterity and associated psycho-neurological functioning. Keywords: Construction, Validation, Psycho-Neurological, Manual Dexterity Test, Abaninik Psycho-Neurological Manual Dexterity Test.
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SELF COMPASSION, GRATITUDE AND PERCEIVED PARENTAL SUPPORT AS PREDICTORS OF EMOTIONAL, SOCIAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING AMONG IN-SCHOOL ADOLESCENTS IN OSOGBO, OSUN STATE, NIGERIA
This cross-sectional study investigated the predictive influence of self-compassion, gratitude and perceived parental support on emotional, social and psychological well-being among in-school adolescents in Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria. A total of 376 adolescent students in public and private secondary schools completed self-report measures. Respondents’ age ranged from 11-19, with a mean age of 14.5. Linear regression was used to examine the predictive influence of the independent variables on emotional well-being, social well-being and psychological well-being. Self-compassion significantly predicted emotional well-being (β = .32, p < .01), social well-being (β = .22, p < .01), and psychological well-being (β = .28, p < .01). Gratitude also significantly predicted emotional well-being (β = .28, p < .01), social well-being (β = .11, p < .05), and psychological well-being (β = .34, p < .01). Further, perceived parental support was a significant predictor; perceived father support significantly predicted emotional well-being (β = .30, p < 0.01), social well-being ((β = .17, p < .01), and psychological well-being (with β = .37, p < 0.01), and perceived mother support significantly predicted emotional well-being (β = .42, R² =.18, p < 0.01), social well-being (β = .31, R² = .10, p < .01), and psychological well-being (β = .41, R² = .17, p < 0.01). Maternal support, however, emerged as the strongest single predictor. Interventions that strengthen these psychological resources in adolescents and those that foster parental support and are recommended. Keywords: Self-compassion, gratitude, perceived parental support, emotional well-being, social well-being, psychological well-being, adolescents
PERCEIVED PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT AND SELF-ESTEEM AS PREDICTORS OF ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AMONG NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS, AWKA SOUTH L.G.A.
The study examined perceived parental involvement and self-esteem as predictors of academic achievement among Nnamdi Azikiwe University Primary school pupil in Awka South L.G.A. Participants in the study were a total of 166 (males, 90) 54.2%, and (females 76) 45.8% pupils with mean age 10.0 years and standard deviation 1.283 years. Two hypotheses guided the study. Instruments used for data collection were the parental involvement questionnaire by Mejia et al., (2009), the self-esteem inventory developed by Piers-Harris (2018), and the third term promotion results for the 2024/2025 academic session was used to measure academic performance. Linear regression results revealed an overall significant model F (2, 163) =7.629, P <.001. Specifically, the beta coefficient for parental involvement was significant B =.291**, P <.001, while self-esteem was not confirmed. It was recommended that parents should devote more time to supporting the children in doing their assignments at home. Keywords: parental involvement, self-esteem, academic achievement, pupils
PSYCHOSOCIAL PREDICTORS OF SUICIDAL IDEATION AMONG YOUTH IN LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA
The prevalence of suicidal ideation influenced by perceived sense of failure and hopelessness to manage psycho-social challenges among youth in Lagos State has become cause for concern. This study investigated the psycho-social predictors of suicidal ideation among youth in Lagos State. Survey design was employed with a 300 youth respondents drawn from the 5 administrative division of Lagos State. Data were collected using Suicidal Ideation Scale (SIS). correlational analysis was utilised for hypotheses testing. Findings revealed that there was a significant joint contribution of anxiety, negative self-perception, stress, poverty, and stigmatsation on suicidal ideation, F (6.91414 = 3.820, p value (p = .001) with a less than 0.05 significance value. Results of the relative contribution of each of the psycho-social factors revealed that anxiety (β = -.296, p = 0.07) is a major significant predictor of suicidal ideation, negative self perception (p = .089), Stress (p = .091) and poverty (p = .379) show potential relationship but do not reach the 0.05 level of significance while stigmatisation (p =.187), did not show a statistically significant contribution to the prediction of suicidal ideation. The study concludes that psycho-social factors significantly predict suicidal ideation. It recommends reforms in the homes - acceptance and removal of unhealthy expectations; communities - external supports and guidance for youth, and society - creation of counselling centres to provide 24/7 talk therapy/psychotherapy; as well as restructuring the workforce to open up opportunities for the youth as against the ageing population that presently dominates it. Key words: psycho-social, predictors, suicidal ideation, youth
USE OF PROPAGANDA AND PUPILS/TEACHERS ABDUCTION IN ORIRE LOCAL GOVERNMENT OF OYO STATE, NIGERIA
This study examines the influence of propaganda on abduction in Nigeria, focusing on how media framing, sensational reporting, and the glorification of criminal actors can shape public perception and possibly encourage kidnapping behavior. Propaganda in this context does not only mean false political messaging; it also includes exaggerated or misleading narratives that make abductors appear powerful, successful, or feared. Such portrayals can increase public anxiety, normalize violence, and contribute to the spread of abduction as a criminal strategy, especially when coverage gives excessive attention to ransom, notoriety, or the status of offenders.The paper is grounded in media and communication theories such as Agenda – setting theory, and Propaganda theory, which explain how repeated exposure to certain messages can influence attitudes and behavior. In Nigeria, the media has played a dual role: while some coverage has helped sustain public awareness and pressure authorities to respond, other coverage has unintentionally glamorized kidnapping and amplified its social impact. The study therefore argues that propaganda and sensational framing can worsen the abduction crisis by shaping fear, public interpretation, and even criminal imitation, while responsible reporting can support awareness and collective response.The paper concludes that the relationship between propaganda and abduction in Nigeria is both complex and significant, because media narratives can either discourage or reinforce criminal conduct. Keywords : Propaganda, Abduction; Sensational Reporting,
“I DECREE AND DECLARE”A SPEECH ACT ANALYSIS OF DIGITAL PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS IN NSPPD MORNING PRAYERS
This paper investigates the illocutionary structure of prophetic declaration utterances performed by Pastor Jerry Eze during the New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declarations (NSPPD) morning prayer livestreams on YouTube. Drawing on Searle’s (1969, 1979) taxonomy of illocutionary acts and Hancher’s (1979) concept of multiple illocutionary force, the study examines how declarative speech acts—whose felicity conditions traditionally depend on institutional co-presence—are constructed and legitimized in a digitally mediated, spatially dispersed environment. Discourse analysis of twelve declaration segments sampled from NSPPD broadcasts (March–April 2026) identifies a recurrent five-phase rhetorical architecture, five strategies for constructing felicity conditions, and a pervasive pattern of simultaneous multi-force utterances directed at two distinct audiences—the human congregation and a posited spiritual realm. The paper argues that digital prophetic declarations constitute a novel speech act genre that exploits livestream affordances to construct distributed institutional authority: a form of illocutionary legitimacy assembled across physical absence rather than presupposed by co-presence. Keywords: speech act theory, illocutionary force, digital pragmatics, prophetic declarations, NSPPD, felicity conditions, religious discourse
WHO FEARS THE “OUTSIDERS”? THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL SUPPORT, ETHNICITY, AND ECONOMIC STRATA ON XENOPHOBIC ATTITUDES AMONG RESIDENTS OF IBADAN METROPOLIS, NIGERIA
Xenophobia has attracted increasing scholarly attention because of its implications for social cohesion and peaceful coexistence in multi-ethnic societies. The present study examined the influence of social support, ethnicity, and socio-economic indicators (academic qualification, employment type, and income level) on xenophobic attitudes among residents of Ibadan metropolis. A cross-sectional survey design was used and data were collected through a stratified convenience sample of 387 residents from two Local Government Areas within Ibadan Metropolis. Multiple regression analysis showed that the predictors jointly accounted for 21% of the variance in xenophobic attitudes (R² = .21, F(4,382) = 24.66, p < .001). Social support was significantly associated with xenophobic attitudes (β = .40, p < .001), while higher income (β = −.10, p = .036) and formal employment/entrepreneurship (β = −.19, p < .001) were associated with lower xenophobic attitudes. Academic qualification was not a significant predictor (β = −.01, p > .05). The three social support domains jointly accounted for 27% of the variance in xenophobic attitudes (R² = .27, F(3,383) = 77.63, p < .001). Disaggregating them revealed that friend support positively predicted xenophobic attitudes (β = .44, p < .001), while family support was a significant negative predictor (β = −.19, p < .005). Support from significant others was not a significant predictor (p > .05). One-way ANOVA indicated significant differences across income groups, with the lowest income earners reporting higher xenophobia. Unemployed participants also reported significantly higher xenophobic attitudes than those employed or running businesses. Ethnicity showed only a marginal effect among Hausa-Fulani, Igbo, and Yoruba groups. The findings indicate differential associations for social support (friend support positively associated; family support negatively associated) and underscore the importance of economic factors in relation to xenophobic attitudes in this sample. Interventions should consider economic empowerment and peer network norms while strengthening family-based protective factors Keywords: Xenophobia; Social Support; Income Level; Ethnicity; Ibadan Metropolis.
EXTRAVERSION AS A MODERATOR ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FEAR OF CRIME AND PSYCHOLOGICAL RESILIENCE
The participants for the study consisted of 273 undergraduate students drawn from Ebonyi State University Abakaliki. They consists of 141 females and 132 males, within the age range of 20 to 26 years (M = 23.00, SD = 1.65). Simple random sampling technique was used to randomly select Ebonyi State University Abakaliki from among the higher institutions in Ebonyi State and the Faculty (Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities). Psychology = 21, Political Science = 28, Economics = 32, English and literary Studies= 19, Sociology and Anthropology = 27, Linguistics and French = 30, History and International Relations = 22, Philosophy = 20, Mass communication = 34, Library and Information Science = 23 and Social Works = 17, and the participants that participated in the study. Big Five Inventory, Fear of Crime Scale and Brief Resilience Scale were used as instrument for the study. Correlation design was adopted while Pearson Product Moment Correlation statistics result revealed that fear of crime correlated significantly with psychological resilience, r = -.57, P < .01, r2 = .40; extraversion correlated significantly with psychological resilience, r = .79, P < .01, r2 = .62. Finally, result showed that interaction between fear of crime and extraversion is significantly negative (t = -11.45, p < .01; LLCI, ULCI = -.03, -.02). These findings imply that fostering extraversion may help protect individuals' psychological resilience against the adverse effects of fear of crime. Keywords: Extraversion, fear of crime, resilience, psychological, Enugu state
THE CHALLENGES OF TEACHING ENGLISH The LANGUAGE IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN ABEOKUTA SOUTH, OGUN STATE
Although English is Nigeria’s official language of education, government, and public life, student performance in the subject remains persistently poor at the secondary school level, and the specific classroom-level challenges that produce this outcome have received limited empirical attention outside major urban centres such as Lagos, Ibadan, and Abuja. Anchored in Dörnyei’s L2 Motivational Self System and Mercer and Littleton’s dialogic framework of exploratory talk, this study addressed this gap by investigating the challenges confronting English language teachers in public secondary schools in Abeokuta South Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria. The study adopted a quantitative descriptive survey design. Ten public secondary schools were purposively selected from the eighteen schools operating within the Local Government Area, after which five English language teachers were randomly selected from each school, yielding a total sample of 50 respondents. Data were collected using a structured, researcher-designed questionnaire administered through Google Forms, and were analysed using descriptive statistics, specifically frequency counts, percentages, mean scores, and standard deviations. The findings revealed that all five challenge areas investigated – instructional materials and resources, class size and classroom environment, mother-tongue interference, student attitude and motivation, and teacher professional development – were significantly perceived by respondents, with an overall mean score of 4.10 on a five-point scale. Class size and classroom environment emerged as the most significant challenge (cluster mean = 4.21), with 76% of respondents reporting class sizes of 41 or more students. Limited access to professional development was the second most pressing challenge (cluster mean = 4.17), with 72% of respondents confirming they had not attended any relevant training in three years. Inadequate instructional materials, mother-tongue interference, and low student motivation were equally significant, each returning cluster means above 4.00. The study recommends urgent government investment in instructional resources, the establishment of structured, LGA-level professional development programmes, and a review of classroom allocation policies in Southwest Nigeria. Keywords: English language teaching, public secondary schools, mother-tongue interference, professional development
‘ECHOES FROM THE WARFRONT: LIVED EXPERIENCES AND PERCEPTIONS OF POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER AMONG FRONTLINE NIGERIAN ARMY PERSONNEL
This study employed a qualitative phenomenological research design to explore the lived experiences of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among frontline Nigerian Army personnel in North-West Nigeria. Phenomenology was adopted to provide an in-depth understanding of how individuals interpret and make meaning of traumatic experiences. Data were collected using In-Depth Interviews (IDIs) guided by open-ended questions and flexible probing techniques to elicit rich narratives. A total of six non-commissioned officers diagnosed with PTSD participants were enumerated. Thematic analysis of the IDIs revealed four major themes: lived experiences of PTSD symptoms, meanings attached to traumatic experiences, coping strategies and help-seeking behaviours, and socio-cultural and military contextual influences. Findings showed that participants experienced intrusive memories, emotional dysregulation, cognitive impairment, and social withdrawal following combat exposure. Traumatic experiences were often normalized as part of military duty, yet deeply personalized through memories of loss, fear of death, and, in some cases, post-traumatic growth. Coping strategies ranged from withdrawal and avoidance to reliance on social support, while help-seeking was largely medicalized with limited psychosocial engagement. Military structure, prolonged deployment, and socio-cultural expectations of masculinity further shaped the manifestation and management of PTSD. Keywords: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), frontline soldiers, Nigerian Army, combat exposure, mental health stigma, coping strategies
CAREER PROGRESSION IN LIBRARIANSHIP: AN EXAMINATION OF DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMMES, CHALLENGES AND SELF-ASSESSMENT
Previous studies on career progression have focused largely on employees in business and corporate organisations, with comparatively little attention given to library personnel. In Nigeria, there is a dearth of literature on the career progression of librarians. This study therefore examined career progression among library personnel in federal universities in South-West Nigeria. The descriptive survey design was adopted, while the total enumeration technique was used to cover the entire population of 223 library personnel. The instruments used for data collection were the Career Progression (CP) (α = 0.77), Career Development Programmes (CDP) (α = 0.79), and Challenges to Career Progression (CCP) (α = 0.79) scales. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that the most highly rated aspect of career progression was its potential to earn library personnel recognition in society (88.7%), while the greatest challenge was the irregular conduct of promotion examinations (60.5%). The quality of career development programmes was rated high (Grand Mean = 3.09). The study concluded that career progression among library personnel in federal universities in South-West Nigeria was affected by identifiable structural and administrative challenges. Therefore, library management should address these challenges and consider staff perspectives to enhance career progression and improve productivity. Keywords: Career development programmes; career progression; library personnel; federal university libraries; South-West Nigeria
URBANIZATION, POLICING AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IN NIGERIA
Nigeria is urbanizing faster than its governing institutions can manage, producing environmental collapse and security strains that existing policy frameworks have failed to contain. This paper examines how rapid urban expansion generates slums, environmental and ecological damage, with new crime geographies, and argues that rural urban migration leads to proliferation of slums which can cause environmental and eco system, and from the broken windows perspective if not quickly meet in the board can degenerate into a very decayed and unsafe society. Policing in Nigeria must not just be maintained but be reconfigured if environmental sustainability is to be achieved. The study demonstrates that urban decay and public disorder amplify one another. The paper further contends that effective policing in Nigerian cities must not only be reactive in crime control, but should infuse models that encourage community participation, environmental design, and rigorous enforcement of environmental statutes. The analysis rests on secondary sources and a systematic review of the literature. The central finding is that sustainable urban development in Nigeria requires security and environmental governance to be co-produced by state agencies, local communities, and regulatory bodies. Keywords: Urbanization, Policing, Environmental Sustainability, Nigeria, Community Policing, Environmental Crime
PHYSICAL ATTRACTIVENESS, BODY IMAGE AND SELF-ESTEEM AMONG FEMALE UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS OF OBAFEMI AWOLOWO UNIVERSITY, ILE-IFE.
This study examined the relationship among physical attractiveness, body image, and self-esteem among female undergraduate students of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. The study utilized a descriptive survey research design in which none of the variables were manipulated. The independent variables were body satisfaction and body image, while the dependent variable was self-esteem. Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to a sample of 156 female undergraduates selected through convenience sampling techniques. Data analysis using the Pearson correlation coefficient revealed a moderate negative relationship between body image and self-esteem (r = -0.48) and a strong negative relationship between perceived body satisfaction and self-esteem (r = -0.61). Based on these findings, it was concluded that body satisfaction and body image have a significant impact on self-esteem among female undergraduates at Obafemi Awolowo University. Additionally, religious affiliation was found to have a significant influence on physical attractiveness, body image, and general body satisfaction among the target population. Keywords: Physical attractiveness, Body image, Body satisfaction, Self-esteem, Religious affiliation, Female undergraduates, Obafemi Awolowo University.
USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA AND ONLINE DATING SITES FOR DATING BY STUDENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF IBADAN, NIGERIA
This study was designed to examine the use of social media and online dating platforms for dating by students of the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. A survey research design was adopted. A multistage sampling technique was adopted to select 385 undergraduate students and data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The students used both general social media platforms and specialised online dating sites, but the usage varied among platforms. The most reported benefits were ease of communication and dating convenience, while dishonesty on dating platforms and unrealistic expectations were the most significant challenges. Uses and Gratifications, Subjective Norms, Perceived Behavioural Control, Habit and Hedonic Motivation showed statistically significant relationships with the use of social media and online dating sites for dating. There is a need to implement structured digital relationship awareness programmes that promote responsible and cautious use of social media and online dating platforms. Keywords: Hedonic motivation, Online dating sites, Social media, Subjective norms, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, Uses and gratification
MODERATING ROLE OF RESILIENCE ON PERCEIVED STIGMATIZATION AS A PREDICTOR OF BURNOUT AMONG PARENTS OF SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDRENIN ENUGU, ENUGU STATE, NIGERIA
The study investigated the moderating role of Resilience on Perceived Stigmatization as a predictor of Burnout among Parents with special needs children. A total of 274 participants drawn from Parents of Special need Children in Enugu comprising of 114 males and 160 females with the age range of 27 years to 64 years, with a mean age of 41.90 and standard deviation of 10.21were used for the study. Mix sampling technique was adopted in the study whereby systematic sampling technique was used to select the schools that will participate in the study (Assemblies of God Vocational and Skill Centre = 60, Calvary Foundation Institute of Technology = 43, St Joseph Institute Technical College = 74, and Special Education Centre = 97) while convenient sampling technique (participants who were willing to participate in the study) was used to select the participants for the study. Parental Burnout Assessment (PBA), Brief Resilience Scale (BRS) and The Perceived Public Stigma Scale (PPSSS) were use in the study. Correlation design was adopted while Hierarchical Multiple Regression statistics result revealed that perceived stigma significantly predicted burnout (β = .70, t = 16.60, p<.01) and resilience significantly predicted burnout ( β = -1.00, t = -17.79 p<.01). Finally, the result shows that interaction between resilience and perceived stigmatization is significantly negative (t = -3.46, P < .01; LLCI, ULCI = -.20, -.06). The outcome of the study not only contributed to academic discourse but empirically showed that higher perceived stigma increases burnout while higher resilience reduces burnout, and resilience weakens the negative impact of stigma on burnout. Key Words: Resilience. Stigmatization, Burnout, Special Needs
GRATITUDE MODERATES THE RELATIONSHIP OF NEUROTICISM, ADVERSE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCES AND PROSOCIAL BEHAVIOUR AMONG UNDERGRADUATES
Young adults’ prosocial tendencies have been shown to be adversely impacted by their experiences of trauma during childhood as well as their neurotic tendencies. However, studies examining mechanisms that could mitigate these adverse effects are scare in literature, especially among students in tertiary institutions. We therefore examined the role of gratitude in the relationship of neuroticism, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and prosocial behaviour among undergraduates. Using a cross-sectional design, we conveniently sampled 349 undergraduates (male=157, female=192, mean=28.26, SD=3.39) from a Nigerian University, who were assessed using validated measures of neuroticism, adverse childhood experiences, gratitude and prosocial behaviour. The Hayes Process Macros-based moderation analysis results showed that the negative impact of neuroticism on prosocial behaviour (PSB) was not significant. Moreover, ACE-sexual abuse category was negatively associated with PSB, while the physical/emotional abuse dimension of the ACE did not predict PSB. Gratitude was positively associated with PSB. The test of moderation effects indicated that the negative impact of neuroticism on PSB was more severe for undergraduates high in gratitude, compared to undergraduates with low and moderate levels of gratitude. Interventions should prioritize trauma-informed care to effectively address the complex needs of undergraduates with history of abuses, while also targeting neurotic tendencies. Keywords: adverse childhood experiences, moderation, neuroticism, physical/emotional abuse, prosocial behaviour, sexual abuse.
PERCEIVED SOCIAL SUPPORT AS A PREDICTOR OF SELF-ESTEEM AMONG YOUNG ADULTS IN A NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY
Self-esteem in emerging adulthood has been linked repeatedly to perceived social support, but the evidence base is drawn overwhelmingly from Western, Middle Eastern and East Asian samples, and Nigerian data remain sparse. This study examined the relationship between perceived social support and self-esteem among young adults in a Nigerian university. A cross-sectional survey design was used. Two hundred and twenty-seven undergraduates of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, completed the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Perceived social support was positively and significantly associated with self-esteem, r(225) = .23, p < .01, 95% CI [.10, .35], accounting for approximately five per cent of the variance in self-esteem scores. Mean perceived support fell within the moderate band of the scale, and mean self-esteem lay above the scale midpoint. None of the demographic variables assessed, including age, marital status and religious affiliation, was significantly related to self-esteem. The direction of the association replicates findings from Turkish, Israeli, Indian and Malaysian samples, although the magnitude is smaller than in several of those studies. The use of a total support score, which collapses family, peer and significant-other sources, is advanced as the most likely reason for the attenuation, and source-disaggregated replication in Nigerian samples is recommended. Practical implications for university counselling provision are discussed. Keywords: perceived social support; self-esteem; young adults; emerging adulthood; Nigeria
PARTICIPATION OF WOMEN IN SECURITY INSTITUTIONS AND PEACEBUILDING: CHALLENGES, REFORMS AND COMMUNITY OUTCOMES
The participation of women in security institutions and peacebuilding processes has increasingly attracted attention from scholars, policymakers, and international organizations over the past two decades. Women make up half of the world's population, yet they remain significantly underrepresented in the police, the military, intelligence agencies, and in formal peace negotiations. This paper examines the challenges women face in entering and advancing within security institutions, explores the major policy and institutional reforms that have been introduced to address those challenges, and analyses the documented outcomes that result from women's inclusion in security and peacebuilding processes at the community level. Drawing on a wide body of scholarship and key international frameworks particularly United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 and its successor resolutions the paper argues that gender-inclusive security institutions are not simply a matter of fairness or legal rights; they produce better operational outcomes, build community trust, reduce gender-based violence, and contribute to more durable and lasting peace. The paper concludes that meaningful participation of women goes beyond mere numerical representation but requires structural reforms, changes in institutional culture, and sustained political commitment at both the national and international levels. Keywords: Women, security sector reform, peacebuilding, UNSCR 1325, gender mainstreaming, community outcomes
EFFECTS OF COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY AND MOTIVATIONAL INTERVIEWING IN REDUCING DECISIONAL PROCRASTINATION AMONG PUBLIC SECTOR LEADERS IN NIGERIA
The study examined the effectiveness of cognitive behavioural therapy and motivational interviewing in reducing decisional procrastination among public sector leaders in South-west, Nigeria. To ascertain the degree of treatment efficacy, a random sample of 75 public sector leaders was selected from three Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in three states in South-west Nigeria. Twenty-five participants were selected from each MDA chosen in the selected states, and they were exposed to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Motivational Interviewing, respectively and a control group. The quasi-experimental study of nonequivalent control group design was employed with a 3X2X3 factorial matrix, with the first three for treatment, two for levels of workload and the second three for organisational culture levels as the moderating variables. The instruments used for data collection were the decisional procrastination Scale for Leaders (DMPS-L), Workload Questionnaire (WLQ), and Organizational Culture Scale (OCS). The three instruments were standardised scales with reliability coefficients of 0.78, 0.88 and 0.73, respectively and were used for data collection. Pre-test and post-test data were obtained from each participant and formed the basis of the findings, using ANCOVA for data analysis. Three hypotheses were formulated and tested at α = 0.05 level of significance. Results showed significant differences across all three treatments tested. The post-hoc analyses were carried out for the three hypotheses tested. That is, there were significant main effects of treatment, workload and organisational culture in reducing decisional procrastination among public sector leaders in South-west, Nigeria. It was therefore concluded that Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Motivational Interviewing can be used to reduce decisional procrastination among public sector leaders, and recommendations are also offered. Keywords: Cognitive behaviour therapy, Motivational interviewing, Decision-making, Procrastination, Public Sector Leaders
ADVERSE LIFE EXPERIENCES AND MENTAL HEALTH OUTCOMES: AN ASSESSMENT OF CASE VIGNETTES.
Adverse life experiences like trauma, loss, abuse, and ongoing stress play a major role in shaping our mental health. This paper explores the complex ways these experiences affect individuals by looking at real-life case examples. Drawing from existing research, it shows how our biological makeup, psychological state, and social environment all interact to influence how we respond to difficulties. Using these cases, the paper examines important theories about risk and stress to better understand why people’s mental health paths can vary so much after tough times. By combining clinical knowledge with theory, it emphasizes the importance of personalized and context-aware approaches in assessing and supporting mental health. Based on the stories shared by clients in this study, the paper calls for a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of adversity, one that focuses on early recognition, coping strategies, and timely treatment, to improve both clinical care and mental health policies. Keywords: Adversity, mental health, case vignettes.
A FEMINIST DISCOURSE ANALYSIS OF GENDERED VERBAL VIOLENCE IN NIGERIAN POLITICS: THE AKPABIO AKPOTI-UDUAGHAN DEBATE
This study examines gendered verbal violence in Nigerian politics through a feminist discourse analysis of the public exchanges surrounding Godswill Akpabio and Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Contrary to the background of persistent patriarchal structures in African political institutions, women in leadership positions continue to encounter unfriendly rhetoric, symbolic intimidation, and linguistic demotion that undermine democratic inclusion. The problem addressed by this study is the normalization of sexist verbal aggression within Nigerian political discourse and its implications for women’s political participation. The aim of the study is to investigate the linguistic patterns of gendered verbal violence, examine the power relations embedded in political exchanges, and evaluate their broader socio-political implications. Using the Feminist Standpoint Theory and Critical Discourse Analysis, the research adopts a qualitative methodology that involves textual and contextual analyses of media reports, interviews, parliamentary reactions, and online commentaries related to the discussion. Findings show that male politicians used political language as an instrument of patriarchal dominance through mockery, delegitimization, and gender stereotyping targeted at female politicians in the political institution. The study concludes that gendered verbal violence weakens democratic rules and causes political apathy among women. It recommends firmer parliamentary ethical codes, gender-sensitive political communication policies, and institutional reforms promoting inclusive political engagement. The study further highlights the need for policy-driven protection against verbal misogyny in Nigerian democratic institutions. Keyword: Gendered Verbal Violence, Feminist Discourse Analysis, Nigerian Politics, Patriarchal Power, Political Misogyny
Invasion from Mars: A Study in the Psychology of Panic: A CRITIQUE OF HADLEY CANTRIL’S (1940) WORK ON INFLUENCE OF MASS MEDIA MISINFORMATION ON THE PUBLIC PSYCHE.:
TITLE OF THE STUDY AND BACKGROUND OF THE SCHOLAR: Title of the study: Invasion from Mars: A Study in the Psychology of Panic by Hadley Cantril (1940). Dr Hadley Cantril was an American public opinion analyst and academic, who spent major part of his professional life at Princeton University, New Jersey, as a prominent psychologist and researcher. Born in Utah in 1906, he is most remembered for developing the Cantril Self-Anchoring Striving Scale in 1965, also known as ‘Cantril’s Ladder’ published in ‘The pattern of Human Concerns’. Cantril’s Ladder is a measurement instrument that asks people to rate their present, past, and anticipated future satisfaction with life on a scale anchored by their own identified values. His legacy is defined by three major pillars that shaped modern social science and global metrics: The Global Standard for Measuring Happiness- the Cantril Ladder: His 0-to-10 self-anchoring scale remains the premier tool for global well-being research. The Foundation of Media Effects Research- the Invasion from Mars (1940): His study established the psychological framework for understanding mass panic and media influence. The Integration of Polling into Statecraft: He transformed public opinion polling from a marketing tool into an instrument of national security.
PEER INFLUENCE AS A PREDICTOR OF RELAPSE AMONG YOUTHS RECOVERING FROM SUBSTANCE ADDICTION IN IBADAN METROPOLIS NIGERIA: A SCOPING REVIEW
Peer influence is a very critical factor in the Relapse of youths that are recovering from substance addiction in Ibadan metropolis Nigeria. However, local evidence on the study is scarce in Ibadan metropolis. This study employed a scoping review design which is guided by Arksey and O’Malley’s framework, to map existing global and Nigerian literature on the relationship between peer influence and Relapse. The reviewed studies were selected based on established criteria. Studies that focused solely on pharmacological treatment without social or behavioral analysis, as well as those unrelated to Relapse, were excluded. Searches were conducted manually through Google Scholar and Google across all accessible databases. A combination of relevant keywords and phrases were used. Approximately three hundred and fifty (350) studies were retrieved from the searches, seventy (70) were shortlisted for review. Finally, fifteen (15) studies were selected for the review. The reviewed studies are primarily cross-sectional (66.7%) and spanned 11 countries with sample sizes ranging from 34 to 915. Relapse rates ranged from 24% to 95% in the review and peer pressure is a significant relapse predictor. This often interacts with factors like unemployment, stigma, and family conflicts. However, positive peer support emerged as a protective factor in some studies. However, the result is generally limited in its applicability to youths in the Ibadan metropolis, primarily due to the scarcity of local studies on the topic. Also, there is an imbalance in gender representation in the study. The study concludes that peer influence is a significant predictor of Relapse globally and suggests targeted interventions, such as peer support groups and mindfulness-based programs. The study recommends that the Ministry of Health, NDLEA, and state rehabilitation centres should formalise peer-support components within rehabilitation policy. Keywords: Peer influence, Relapse, substance abuse, youths, Ibadan, Nigeria
SOCIAL SUPPORT AND COPING STRATEGIES AS DETERMINANTS OF MENTAL HEALTH RECOVERY AMONG YOUNG ADULTS IN SELECTED HOSPITALS IN IBADAN, OYO STATE
Recovery from mental illness in young adults is crucial for healthy living, daily functioning, and life satisfaction. It involves more than merely symptoms reduction to encompass dimensions such as hope, resilience and social engagement. Yet, sustained recovery remains elusive for a significant number of young adults and for this reason, it is important to study vital determinants. To what extent social support and coping strategies can predict recovery of mental health among young adults was what this study sought to determine. The study adopted a descriptive survey design and 280 responses were received. At 5% level of significance, a validated questionnaire was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, t-test, and multiple regression. There were no significant gender differences in mental health recovery according to the results. Social support (r = 0.682), mental health services (r = 0.556) and coping strategies (r = 0.542) are positively related to recovery. Both social support and coping strategies were significant predictors of recovery, with the combination also being significant (R² = 0.476, F = 82.594, p < 0.05). The study confirms that social support, service access, and coping strategies are the essential factors influencing mental health recovery. It recommends enhancement of support systems and the inclusion of coping skills training in mental health service. Keywords: Mental Health Recovery, Social Support, Coping Strategies, Young Adults, Mental Health Services.
EFFECTS OF DIALECTICAL BEHAVIOURAL AND REALITY THERAPIES IN ENHANCING UNCONDITIONAL SELF-ACCEPTANCE AMONG IN-SCHOOL EARLY ADOLESCENTS IN LAGOS STATE, NIGERIA
Unconditional self-acceptance (USA), self-accepting non-judgmentally/external validation, is critical to promoting psychological well-being and wholesomeness among early adolescents. Reports have revealed prevalence of low USA among in-school early adolescents, including those in Lagos State, Nigeria. This study, aimed at determining the effects of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Reality Therapy (RT) in enhancing USA among in-school early adolescents in Lagos State, Nigeria. This study adopted pretest-posttest, control group quasi-experimental design of 3x2x3 factorial matrix. Three local government areas (LGAs) were selected from the twenty LGAs in the state and 3 schools were selected from the chosen LGAs.132 in-school early adolescents were screened using the USA Questionnaire- Short Form (α=0.82) and 71 in-school early adolescents that scored 0-20 in the screening participated in the study. The schools were assigned to treatments: DBT (25), RT (21) and Control (25) groups. USA Questionnaire (α=0.87), Peer Influence Scale (α=0.89) and intervention guide were used. The treatment lasted eight (8) weeks. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA at 0.05 alpha. Results revealed significant main effects of treatments in enhancing USA among in-school early adolescents. DBT participants performed best followed by RT and control group participants. There weren’t significant main effects of gender and peer influence; interaction effects of treatment and gender, treatment and peer influence and gender on USA; three-way interaction effect of treatment, gender and peer influence on USA among the participants. Counselling psychologists and school management should incorporate these interventions into their treatments to improve USA among in-school early adolescents. Keywords: Dialectical behaviour therapy, In-school early adolescents in Lagos state, Peer influence, Realitytherapy, Unconditional Self-acceptance,
SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS, SCHOOL LOCATION, NO FENCES, UNMANNED GATES AND LACK OF SECURITY PERSONNEL AS DETERMINANTS OF INSECURITY IN SECONDARY SCHOOL IN OYO STATE, NIGERIA
This study examined the determinants of insecurity among in-school adolescents in Oyo State, Nigeria, with particular emphasis on socio-economic status, school location, no fences, unmanned gates and lack of security personnel. The study investigated how selected determinants jointly and independently influence the insecurity among in-school adolescents. The study adopted a descriptive research design of correlational type. The population comprised secondary school students within public schools in Oyo State. A representative sample was selected using simple random sampling of 314 respondents. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire designed to measure socio-economic status, school location, no fences, unmanned gates and lack of security personnel and insecurity of in-school adolescents. The instrument was validated and reliability was established using standard statistical procedures. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson Product Moment Correlation, and multiple regression analysis to answer the research questions. Findings revealed that socio-economic status, school location, no fences, unmanned gates and lack of security personnel were significantly related to in-security among in-school adolescents. School location emerged as a strongest predictor of insecurity among in-school adolescents, followed by no fences, lack of security personnel, unmanned gate and socio-economic status in that order. The joint contribution of socio-economic status, school location, no fences, unmanned gates and lack of security personnel significantly predicted insecurity among in-school adolescents, while each variable also made meaningful relative contributions. The study concluded that insecurity among in-school adolescents in Oyo State is not solely dependent on the presence of insecurity but is strongly influenced by socio-economic status, school location, no fences, unmanned gates and lack of security personnel as determinants surrounding the student. The study therefore recommends that parents should send their child or ward to school in urban location, government and education stake holders should make sure that school are fenced up and that security personnel should be employed to guide schools. Keywords: Socio-Economic Status, school Location, Unmanned Gates, Lack of Security Personnel, Insecurity.
‘MOVING BEYOND DATING TO SHARING DOMESTIC RESPONSIBILITIES’: EXPLAINING COHABITATION PRACTICES AMONG STUDENTS IN A NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY.
This study examined the attitudes and practices of cohabitation among students in a selected University in South West Nigeria. The study was motivated by the increasing prevalence of cohabitation on university campuses despite strong cultural, religious, and moral prohibitions against the practice. Anchored on Social Exchange Theory (SET) and Symbolic Interactionist Theory (SIT), the design was exploratory involving the conduct of in-depth interviews with 22 purposively selected students who were cohabiting at the time of the study or had cohabited in the past. Data were content analysed. The findings indicated an awareness of cohabitation among students, with emotional companionship, economic convenience, and proximity to campus emerging as dominant motivations. Cultural and religious beliefs continued to shape negative perceptions, especially among female students, who experienced greater stigma and moral judgement. While respondents agreed that cohabitation offers emotional and academic convenience, some also maintained that it undermines the sanctity of marriage. Cohabitation was also perceived to have implications for students’ sexual and reproductive health (SRH), including increased likelihood of sexual activity, risk of unintended pregnancy, and exposure to sexually transmitted infections. The study concluded that cohabitation among students is a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by socio-economic pressures, relational needs, and the gradual re-negotiation of traditional norms. Although students increasingly normalize the practice, moral ambivalence and gendered inequalities persist. The research recommended that the University management should expand affordable hostel facilities, strengthen youth-friendly SRH services, and introduce counselling programs that address relationship management and reproductive health education. Keywords: Cohabitation, University students, Attitudes and practices, Sexual and Reproductive Health, Economic hardship.
EFFECT OF APP-BASED MINDFULNESS MEDITATION ON PERCEIVED STRESS AMONG FIRST-YEAR UNIVERSITY STUDENTS AT COVENANT UNIVERSITY, OTA, NIGERIA
This study examined the effect of app-based mindfulness meditation on perceived stress among first-year university students at Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria. A two-phase design was used. In the first phase, 200 students completed the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and 104 students scoring above the mean were identified as eligible for the intervention phase. Sixty-three students consented and were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 32) or a waiting-list control group (n = 31). The experimental group received six sessions of app-based mindfulness meditation delivered through the Calm app over three weeks, while the control group received no intervention during the study period. Data were analysed using descriptive estimates, independent-samples t-tests, and paired-samples t-tests. Results showed no significant baseline gender difference in perceived stress, no significant change in the control group, but a significant reduction in perceived stress in the experimental group (t (31) = 5.13, p<.05). At posttest, the experimental group reported significantly lower perceived stress level than the control group (t (61) = 4.24, p<.05). These findings suggest that app-based mindfulness meditation may help reduce perceived stress among first-year university students. However, larger studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up are needed to confirm effectiveness. Keywords: App-based mindfulness meditation, first-year university student, perceived stress, intervention study, Nigeria
ACCESS TO ENERGY AND HOUSEHOLD HEALTH OUTCOMES IN NIGERIA
This study examined the effect of access to energy and household health outcomes at the micro-level in Nigeria, using the 2018 Nigerian Demographic Health Survey data. The descriptive statistics results showed that 76.16 percent of the household adopt wood as a means for energy for cooking, demonstrating strong preferences for wood-fuel traditional stoves. The infant mortality rate, low-birth weight, and pre-term births are used to proxy household health outcomes. More so, the empirical findings suggests that there is a positive significant effect of unclean energy access on infant deaths, low birth weights, and pre-term births in Nigeria. The study examined the effect of maternal behaviour such as iron intake, malaria, and adequate antenatal visits on infant deaths. Iron intake has no significant effect on infant deaths, low birth weight, however has a negative effect on pre-term births. Also, a mother that suffers from malaria is likely to have a child that would die before the first birthday, a child that weighs less than 2,500 grams (low birth weight), meanwhile, no significant effect on the risk of preterm babies. Further, sufficient antenatal visits (at least 8 visits) reduces the likelihood that a child will dies before the first birthday, will more likely not weigh 2,500 grams, however, no significant effect on the risk of preterm babies. The study, therefore, recommends that targeted policies that seek to upscale efficient cooking technologies such as improved cooking stoves should be decisively pursued. In addition, improving rural electrification and encouraging in appliances such as electric stoves and refrigerators can minimize exposure to gasses from biomass combustion and reduce the frequency and duration of cooking time; thus, allowing women to reallocate spared time into income-earning engagements.
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AMONG YOUNG MARRIED CHRISTIAN COUPLES: IMPLICATIONS AND CHRISTIAN-BASED SOLUTIONS FOR FAMILY STABILITY
Domestic violence remains one of the most pervasive yet underreported crises afflicting family life in Nigeria, with young married Christian couples among the most affected demographic despite religious affiliation that ostensibly enjoins love, mutual submission, and non-violence. This paper investigates the nature, prevalence, and dynamics of domestic violence among young married Christian couples, examines its theological, psychological, sociological, and ecclesiastical implications, and proposes biblically grounded, church-centred solutions for the restoration and stabilisation of affected families. Anchored on the Christian Family Systems Theory and the Pastoral Care and Counselling Framework, and drawing on a descriptive survey of 220 respondents drawn from married couples, pastors, marriage counsellors, and social welfare officers in Kaduna State, the study explores how biblical misinterpretation, cultural patriarchy, economic stress, premarital ignorance, and inadequate pastoral support combine to generate and sustain domestic violence within ostensibly Christian homes. Findings indicate that physical, emotional, and spiritual abuse are significantly prevalent among the study population, that prevailing interpretations of scriptural texts on headship and submission frequently enable rather than restrain abusive conduct, and that most victims receive inadequate or theologically uninformed responses from their local churches. The paper recommends comprehensive pre-marital education anchored in biblical equality, the establishment of church-based domestic violence response teams, structured pastoral counselling protocols, and integration of local church support networks with state-level social welfare and legal protection mechanisms. Keywords: Domestic Violence, Young Married Christian Couples, Christian Family, Pastoral Care, Biblical Marriage, Family Stability, Nigeria