Journal of Professional Counselling

CONFLICT RESOLUTION SKILL TRAINING ON PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE AMONG SPOUSES OF CATHOLIC CHURCHES IN ABIA AND IMO STATES

Ijeoma, A. UCHENDU — 2025-08-07

Couple relationships are described as having an intimate nature that is defined by close interdependence, continuous interaction, and reciprocally reinforcing strong feelings. Most of the married spouses in the Catholic, Orthodox, and Pentecostal churches have serious conflicts in spite of regular church going and prayers for harmony and love. The current study therefore examined the effectiveness of conflict resolution skill training on peaceful coexistence among the spouses of the Catholic Churches in Abia and Imo State. Quasiexperimental design was used. Conflict Resolution Skill Questionnaire (CRSQ) was used to collect responses from the participants. 46 spouses (23 men, 23 women) received six weeks of structured CRST. Outcomes were measured with the Marital Peaceful Coexistence Questionnaire (MPCQ, α = 0.72) at pre-test, post-test, and four-week follow-up. The tool was pilot tested among 20 SPOUSES, and Cronbach Alpha coefficient of 0.79 was utilized to test the results. To answer the research question, means and standard deviation descriptive statistics were employed to provide data analysis and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) utilized to test the hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. Results showed improved peaceful coexistence (pre-test M = 2.10; post-test M = 3.42) and willingness for conflict resolution in the experimental group (pre-test M = 2.05; post-test M = 3.50), and the effects were still sustained during the follow-up period (M = 3.35 and 3.40, respectively). ANCOVA confirmed statistically significant group differences (post-test F(1,43) = 37.59, p < 0.001, η² = 0.46), whereas the control condition showed no substantive change (M ≈ 2.10–2.15). It is concluded that CRST significantly improves marital harmony and recommends inclusion of it in premarital counselling programmemes. Recommendations are institutionalizing CRST in religious organizations, government-funded community workshops, and culturally adapted expansions for diverse populations

IMPACT OF EDUCATION ON SELF-RELIANCE AND WEALTH CREATION AS PERCEIVED BY CORP MEMBERS IN SOKOTO STATE, NIGERIA

Iya, H. AYUBA PhD — 2025-08-07

This study; Impact of Education on Self-Reliance and Wealth Creation as perceived by serving Corp members in Sokoto State, Nigeria focused on investigating the extent to which graduates of tertiary institutions in Nigeria are self-reliant and their ability to create wealth. It was survey research with two objectives and corresponding questions guided the study. The population used comprised graduates from different tertiary institutions in Nigeria, who are serving Corp members in Sokoto State as at August, 2024. A total of 74 Corp members voluntarily participated in this exercise, and by convenient sampling, all 74 of them constituted the sample used. A 33 item instrument titled; Self-reliance and Wealth Creation Ability Scale (SRWCAS) was adapted by the researchers. It has 0.76 validity index and α= 0.75 coefficient of reliability using Cronbach alpha. Statistics used for data analyses include mean, standard deviation, and chi-square. Among the results obtained are; tertiary education in Nigeria equips graduates with skills and knowledge to a very high extent but promotes more self-reliance than it equips learners with wealth creation skills. Also, all category of graduates who responded to the instrument had high self-reliance ability however, graduates of specialized Universities scored a bit higher than their counterparts from other tertiary institutions in wealth creation ability. It was therefore concluded that lecturers in tertiary institutions across Nigeria should intensify efforts in helping learners understand how to translate the knowledge they acquire to real life wealth creation competences that translate to economic independence/self-reliance.

PEACE EDUCATION FOR NATIONAL SECURITY AND INTERCULTURAL INTEGRATION IN A MULTICULTURAL SOCIETY: THE COUNSELLING PERSPECTIVE

Amaihian, P. IDOWU — 2025-08-07

The inculcation and integration of culture of peace and security among the diverse group in a multicultural society lay credence to peaceful co-existence divulge of violence, insecurity, conflicts and inability to tolerate and acculturate, non-acceptance of other people’s cultural heritage. A country without any of socio-cultural, religion and values difference abhor peace and co-exist through acquisition of Peace education, and multicultural Education that give values to Unity and Peace. The paper is aimed at examining the roles of Counselling towards culture of peace, security and integration in a multicultural society. Identify the causes of insecurity violence and disunity such as non-inclusion of Peace Education in the school curriculum to train students about peaceful co-existence, poverty, food shortage, cultural and ethnic discrimination, non-acceptance of other people’s opinion and cultural values, the ethnoreligious indoctrination which result to restiveness, frustration, death, displacement insecurity and genocide being experience in all part of the country. To maintain peace and integration of the diverse people, will require effective strategies and campaign for peace, reconciliation of the differences which could be achieved with the introduction of counselling services, promoting unity, stability and peaceful co-existence. Recommendation was made that, there should be adequate counselling programmes, peace awareness and inculcation of peace Education in the school curriculum and promoting cultural integration through inter-ethnic marriages, cultural festival, exchange programmes among various group

COUNSELLING APPROACHES FOR ADDRESSING ETHICAL DILEMMAS IN ADOLESCENTS

Abubakar, M. MAIKAMBA — 2025-08-07

Adolescents often face ethical dilemmas that can have profound effects on their development and well-being. This paper explores various counselling approaches that can be employed to address these dilemmas. By examining theoretical frameworks and practical interventions, this paper aims to provide counselors with effective strategies for helping adolescents navigate ethical challenges. Key approaches discussed include cognitive-behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and solution-focused therapy. The paper also considers the role of cultural competence and the integration of ethical decision-making models in counselling practices

CHILD DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN THE SOCIETY: IMPLICATION FOR COUNSELLING

Abubakar, S. ADEKUNLE — 2025-08-01

This paper examines child domestic violence in the society. It is no longer news that a lot of children had experienced and still experiencing child domestic violence or abuse in one form or the other. Forms of domestic violence which include physical abuse, sexual abuse, verbal abuse or emotional abuse and psychological abuse. The article views the different causes of child domestic violence like social stress, intergenerational transmission of violence, social isolation and community involvement and family structure. Whereas, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), result in death, low self-esteem, stress disorders, anxiety, depression, sexual transmitted infection, unwanted pregnancy, and educational difficulty are all effects of child domestic violence. Preventive measures are also taken to reduce the rate of child domestic violent. The related theory used was reframing theory, which simply means changing the interpretation of a behaviour or situation to alter its perceived meaning. Conclusively, the counsellors, educational psychologists and other relevant agencies carry out constant workshop to sensitize parents, guardians, and teachers. So as to be aware of the implication of child domestic violence and promptly report any related abuse to the appropriate authority.

ROLE OF COUNSELLING IN PROMOTING VOCATIONAL SKILLS DEVELOPMENT AMONG STUDENTS IN FUNCTIONAL EDUCATION FRAMEWORKS

Abubakar, M. MAIKAMBA — 2025-08-01

In today’s rapidly changing global economy, vocational skills development has become critical for students to succeed in the workforce. Functional education frameworks, which emphasize practical and applied learning, are increasingly being adopted to prepare students for realworld challenges. Counselling plays a pivotal role in promoting vocational skills development within these frameworks by providing students with the guidance, support, and resources necessary to make informed decisions about their career paths. This paper explores the role of counselling in vocational skills development, focusing on how counselling interventions can enhance students' readiness for the workforce and contribute to their overall personal and professional growth.

IMPACT OF PARENTAL GUIDANCE ON MORAL DEVELOPMENT OF ADOLESCENTS IN LOKOJA, KOGI STATE: COUNSELLING IMPLICATION

Glory, E. AMADI — 2025-08-01

This study investigated the impact of parental guidance on the moral development of adolescents in Lokoja, Kogi State and its counselling implications. The primary goal was to assess how parental guidance impacts adolescents' moral reasoning, ethical decision making, and general moral development through open communication, role modelling, and the establishment of clear moral expectations. The study used descriptive survey research. Out of a 396,337 population, 400 JSS1-JSSIII adolescents from six secondary schools were purposively selected for the study. "The Impact of Parental Guidance on Moral Development of Adolescents in Lokoja, Kogi State Questionnaire" was a carefully developed questionnaire used for data collection with a reliability coefficient of 0.87 using Cronbach Alpha. Data analysis used the Chi-square (χ2) test at a 0.05 significance level. The findings revealed that the development of adolescents' moral reasoning, ethical decision-making, and overall moral character were all positively correlated with parental guidance, which includes open communication, parental role modelling, and the establishment of clear moral expectations. This proved that adolescents who get regular positive parental guidance exhibit higher levels of moral awareness, empathy, and social conformity, whereas lack of parental guidance or negative guidance leads to moral disengagement and bad conduct. The study suggested that family-based strategies can enhance moral guidance in adolescents, highlighting the importance of parental impact on adolescent moral development. Implications for counsellors include the need to design programs that teach parents effective guidance skills and encourage cooperation between counsellors, parents, and adolescents to improve moral development.

EXAMINATION OF GUIDANCE AND COUNSELLING STRATEGIES AS TOOLS FOR ENHANCING NATIONAL SECURITY IN NIGERIAN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS

Chinyere, C. NGWAKWE PhD — 2025-08-01

This paper looked at how Nigerian tertiary institutions use guidance and counselling to achieve national security. The principles of guidance and counselling, national security, education, and ways that guidance and counselling can employ to promote peace and harmony in tertiary institutions were all explored. The discussion of this paper demonstrated that sufficient orientation, motivation, and counselling services will aid in the establishment of peace among the country's students. Conclusions and recommendations were given, including that orientation services are crucial and should be required of all new intakes before the start of school in any tertiary institution in Nigeria. Hostels, classrooms, instructional materials, libraries, laboratories, and qualified guidance counsellors and professors should all be included in the government's requirements for higher institutions. Counselling as a means of resolving disciplinary issues and disagreements among tertiary students, as well as providing motivational services, is a more widely accepted campus environment

VOCATIONAL COUNSELLING THEORY: REVIEW AND CHALLENGES IN KANO STATE, NIGERIA

Dahiru, MUHAMMED — 2025-08-01

This paper critically reviewed Vocational Counselling Theory: Review and Challenges in Kano State, Nigeria. Effective vocational counselling can substantially impact adolescents' growth and development in a dynamic socioeconomic environment by offering clear pathways for both professional and personal development. The major challenges facing Vocational Counselling among Adolescents in Kano State, Nigeria are Sociocultural Factors, Educational System, Economic constraints, Infrastructure and Resources, Awareness and Attitudes. Based on the discussions of this study, it was suggested that; Educational policy makers should include vocational counselling in the curriculum since it can offer ongoing directions and expose students to a wide range of job alternatives.

COUNSELLING FOR SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: PERSPECTIVES OF YOUTHS IN SAMARU-ZARIA, KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

Jonathan, A. ABRAHAM — 2025-08-01

The study focuses on Counselling for Sustainable Economic Development: Perspective of Youths in Samaru-Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria. It was guided by two research objectives, two research questions and two hypotheses. The study adopted correlational research design. The population of the study comprises of 60 youth with small businesses in Samaru-Zaria. The researchers adopted purposive sampling techniques to select 30 participants for the study. Counselling for Sustainable Economic Development Questionnaire (CSEDQ) developed by the researchers and validated by experts in the Faculty of Education, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. The Null hypotheses were tested at 0.05 levels of significant using Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC) statistics. It was found that there is a significant relationship between challenges of youths and sustainable economic development with (r-cal=0.615, p=0.01) and also significant relationship exists between counselling interventions and challenges of youths economic development (r=0.635,p=0.011). Basis of the findings, it was concluded that the main challenges of youths’ sustainable economic development is unemployment and corruption of embezzlement among self-fish individuals in the country. Also, Journal of Professional Counselling, Vol. 8, No. 2 81 counselling interventions play vital roles in empowering the youths through strategies and skills to drive the economic development.

CRISES MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR SCHOOL-RELATED ASYMMETRIC WARFARE AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHERS IN BORNO STATE, NIGERIA

Oladejo BOLAJI PhD — 2025-08-01

No nation can develop amidst of asymmetric attacks on the lives and properties. In Nigeria today, insecurity of different kinds, has negatively impacted on aspects of national life, particularly the education sector. Thus, this study investigated crises management strategies adopted by the secondary school teachers in Borno State to manage school-related asymmetric warfare in their domains. The study employ descriptive design of a survey type. The population of the study consisted of all secondary school teachers in Borno State from which a total sample of 254 was drawn by means of stratified and simple random sampling techniques. The study employed a questionnaire tagged “Crises Management Strategies for School-Related Asymmetric Warfare Questionnaire (CMSSAWQ), which was face validated by five experts, and has 0.82 Cronbach’s alpha value for the test of consistency. Data collected for the study was analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings of the study revealed that secondary school teachers in Borno State employed strategies like; seeking security information from local hunters/vigilantes, partnering with relevant security agencies on schools’ defence, and volunteer themselves as spy, for managing asymmetric warfare challenges. Other findings revealed that respondents are not differ in their views of the study’s problem based on gender and religion. Based on the findings of this study it was recommended among other that government at all levels should collaborate with secondary school teachers in area of crises intervention for asymmetric warfare challenges.

CONTRIBUTION OF CRISIS COUNSELLING AND DISASTER RESPONSE TO EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT OF NATIONAL SECURITY EVENTS

Nadikko B. JIBRIL — 2025-08-01

National security events, including natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and civil unrest, pose significant challenges to societal stability. Effective crisis counselling and disaster response play a critical role in mitigating the psychological and social impact of such crises while ensuring swift recovery and national resilience. This paper examines the contribution of crisis counselling and disaster response strategies to effectively managing national security events. It highlights the psychological distress caused by crises and the necessity of immediate and longterm interventions through crisis counselling. By providing psychological first aid, traumainformed care, and resilience-building programs, crisis counselling helps affected individuals and communities cope with stress, fear, and post-traumatic disorders. Additionally, disaster response strategies, including emergency preparedness, coordination among security agencies, and community engagement, are essential in minimizing casualties and restoring normalcy. The study further explores the role of government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and mental health professionals in fostering effective disaster management and national security efforts. Findings suggest that integrating crisis counselling within national security frameworks enhances crisis preparedness, reduces long-term psychological effects, and promotes societal cohesion. The paper recommends increased investment in mental health services, improved coordination among response agencies, and public education on crisis preparedness. A comprehensive approach that combines psychological support with robust security measures ensures a more effective and sustainable response to national security events. Ultimately, addressing both the immediate and long-term consequences of crises strengthens national security, resilience, and recovery efforts.

CONFLICT RESOLUTION STRATEGIES AS CORRELATE OF ADMINISTRATIVE EFFECTIVENESS IN PUBLIC COLLEGES OF EDUCATION IN KWARA STATE

Gafar ISIAKA — 2025-08-01

This study examined the relationship between conflict resolution strategies and administrative effectiveness in public colleges of education in Kwara State, Nigeria. A random sample of 180 respondents from public colleges of education in Kwara State participated in the study. The research design employed a questionnaire with two sections to gather data, which was analyzed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation. The study's findings revealed that effective conflict resolution strategies are essential for successful administration in colleges of education. The results showed that management styles of administrators are a primary cause of conflict, and effective conflict management is crucial for positive administrative outcomes. Based on the findings, the study recommends that college administrators should develop expertise in various conflict resolution strategies and consider individual differences among staff members to manage conflicts effectively. Additionally, the study suggests that colleges engage professional counsellors to help individuals or groups understand their goals, actions, and outcomes, promoting effective conflict resolution and administrative outcomes.

EFFECTIVENESS OF PARENTING EDUCATION PROGRAMMES IN REDUCING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AMONG PARENTS OF SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN OJO AREA OF LAGOS STATE

Alade, M. MIFTAHU — 2025-08-01

Domestic violence among couples is a pervasive issue that affects individuals, families, and society as a whole. It encompasses physical, emotional, psychological, and financial abuse, creating long-term adverse effects on victims and their dependents. The consequences of domestic violence extend beyond the couple involved, often influencing children who witness such abuse. Exposure to domestic violence can shape a child’s behaviour, emotional wellbeing, and perception of relationships, potentially leading to a cycle of violence across generations. Domestic violence among parents of secondary school students presents significant social and psychological challenges, impacting both parents and their children. This study examines the effectiveness of parenting education programs in reducing instances of domestic violence among this demographic. This study adopted a quantitative research design and purposive sampling technique to survey 63 parents who participated in a structured parenting education programme across several secondary schools. Data was collected through a post-intervention questionnaire entitled “Parenting education and domestic violence”, measuring changes in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours related to domestic violence. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyse and test the hypothesis formulated using an independent t-test. It was found that the parenting education was effective, as the participants reported an improved spousal relationship. Recommendations were made based on the findings.

CAUSES OF SUICIDAL BEHAVIOUR AS PERCEIVED BY UNDERGRADUATES IN KWARA STATE: IMPLICATIONS FOR VALUE RE-ORIENTATION COUNSELLING

Saheed, B. OLUGBON — 2025-08-01

This study aimed to investigate whether there is any significant difference in the causes of suicidal behaviour as perceived by undergraduates based on gender, religion, and place of residence. One research question was raised, and three research hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. Adopting a descriptive survey method, the study targeted a population of 104,632 undergraduates in Kwara State. A sample size of 402 respondents was selected through a multistage sampling procedure, but only 394 properly filled forms were analysed. Data were collected using a 15-item closed-ended adapted questionnaire titled "Causes of Suicidal Behaviour Questionnaire" (CSBQ), which had a reliability coefficient of 0.74. Frequency count and percentage were used to analyse demographic data, while mean and rank order were employed for the research question. Hypotheses 1 and 3 were tested using an independent t-test, while hypothesis 2 was analysed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). All hypotheses were tested at a 0.05 level of significance.The findings revealed that undergraduates perceived that unstable emotions, family conflict, financial problems, academic pressure, severe sexual harassment or rape among others were causes of suicidal behaviour. The findings of the hypotheses showed that there were significant differences in the causes of suicidal behaviour as perceived by undergraduates based on religion and place of residence, but no significant difference was found based on gender. it was recommended that universities Journal of Professional Counselling, Vol. 8, No. 2 139 managements should organise value re-orientation programmes across all university types, focusing on the identified causes of suicidal behaviour. Counsellors' Associations should train University counsellors on how to organise a sensitive value re-orientation programmee for university students and develop targeted interventions to curb the menace of the various causes identified by undergraduates, such as unstable emotions, family conflict, financial problems, academic pressure, and severe sexual harassment or rape among others that could help reduce suicide risk.

GENDER DIFFERENCES IN THE PATTERNS OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE AMONG OUT OF SCHOOL YOUTH IN KANO METROPOLIS: IMPLICATION FOR FAMILY WELLBEING AND MORAL DEVELOPMENT

Idris, S. ROGO — 2025-08-01

This study attempts to examine the gender differences in the patterns of substance abuse among out of school youths in Kano metropolis. The study was guided by four objectives and four research questions. The study adopted descriptive survey design and the population of the study comprises of out of school youths who voluntarily agreed to participate in the study. A sample of 463 out of school youths were drawn from eight local government areas in Kano metropolis, 257 male and 206 female respectively. Purposive sampling technique was used in the study and instrument for data collection was Patterns of Drug Abuse among Out of School Youths Questionnaire (PDAOSYQ). The data generated was analysed using descriptive statistic/frequency count and simple percentage. The findings from the study reveal that the common substance abused by male and female out of school youths in Kano metropolis includes alcohol, cigarette and Shisha, marijuana, syrups and tramadol, among others. While the male drug abusers smoke cigarettes and shisha, the female drug abusers abused syrups. The predisposing factors for drug abuse for male are mainly peer group influence while for females, it is lack of parental support and family care. Among these predisposing factors are influences to start abusing, influences to continue abusing, influences to stop abusing and influences an client to relapse back to abusing drugs. Mental health problems (213; 82.9%) among males and among female (174; 84.5%) were found to be among the effects of substances abused by the respondents. In addition, Physical health problems among 211 (97.7%) males and 173 (96.6%) females were equally considered as the effects of drug abuse. The paper recommends that Government should introduce adult education classes and skills acquisition centres across the Kano metropolis with a view to rechanneling the energy of out- of- school youths to personal and community development as viable preventive mechanisms to drug abuse.

EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AS A PREVENTIVE AND PROTECTIVE FACTOR AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE OF MARRIED EMPLOYEES IN FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY, ABUJA

Dominic DAKUP — 2025-08-01

This study investigated Emotional Intelligence (EI) as a protective and preventive factor against Domestic Violence (DV) amongst married employees in Municipal Area Council of FCT, Abuja. The study was aimed at ascertaining the relationship between EI and DV amongst participants with a view to identifying potential strategies for preventing and intervening in domestic violence situations. Adopting a quantitative survey design, the study was guided by two research questions, one hypothesis. Purposive-random sampling technique was used to select 100 married employees to participate in the study. Researchers’ made instrument titled “Emotional Intelligence and Domestic Violence Scale” (EIDVS) was used for data collection. The content and construct validity of the instrument was ascertained by experts in faculty of education. Its reliability was determined using Cronbach Alpha that yielded a coefficient index of 0.78. Descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation as well as inferential statistics of Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation were used to analyze the data. The findings of the study showed a high prevalence of DV amongst participants and a significantly negative correlation between EI and DV, indicating that higher EI is associated with lower experiences of DV. Thus, the study recommended among other things that counsellors should incorporate EI assessment into clients’ evaluation and design and implement EI-based interventions to address domestic violence among couples

COUNSELLING SERVICES FOR PEACE AND UNITY: AWARENESS AMONG YOUTHS IN NSUKKA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ENUGU STATE

Esther, N. OBOCHI — 2025-08-01

This study explored the counselling services for peace and unity: awareness among youths in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State. Three specific objectives and corresponding research questions guided the study. Descriptive survey research design was employed. The population was all youth in Nsukka L.G.A, four wards were randomly selected at twenty (20) youths per ward, eighty (80) youths formed the sample for the study. The instrument used for data collection was a 15-item questionnaire titled “counselling services for peace and unity among youth inventory (CSPUYI). The instrument was validated by three experts; two from the Department of Guidance and Counselling and one in Measurement and Evaluation from the Department of Science Education, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State in order to establish its face validity. The internal consistency aspect of the reliability of the instrument was determined using Cronbach Alpha method which yielded an overall index of 0.66. Data collected were analysed with mean and standard deviation to answer the research questions raised. The findings of the study revealed among others that many youths are not fully informed about the availability of these counselling services or their potential role in promoting peace and unity. Based on the findings and conclusions drawn from the study, it was recommended among others that awareness campaigns should be implemented to inform youths about available counselling services and their role in fostering peace and unity.

CRITICAL DISCOURSE ON THE ROLE OF PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLORS IN INFLUENCING UNITY IN NIGERIA

Okarie, EFE — 2025-08-01

Nigeria faces a number of challenges, including increased corruption, lawlessness, instability, and disintegration. The involvement of professional counsellors is of paramount importance, especially during the formulation of policies aimed at promoting national integration. Recognizing this critical role, the present study explored how counsellors contribute to fostering unity in Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was utilized to systematically examine the research problem. The sampling procedure followed a multi-stage approach, beginning with stratification and culminating in purposive selection of 460 participants deemed relevant to the study objectives. Data collection was facilitated through a researcher-designed instrument, the Duties of Counsellors in Promoting Unity Questionnaire (DCPUQ), developed in alignment with the study constructs. Quantitative data were subjected to both descriptive statistical analysis and inferential testing using independent samples t-test. All statistical tests were conducted at a significance level of α = 0.05. Based on gender, level of education, and number of years of employment, the results showed a substantial variation in the role that counsellors had in fostering togetherness. It was suggested, based on the study's findings, that more school counsellors educate children about the importance of Nigerian unity and integration. Professional counselling services, especially advocacy visits/trips, be employed in helping to facilitate the unity of Nigeria. Female counsellors, counsellors with postgraduate qualification and with 20 years and above professional experience should be more involved in the advocacy of Nigeria’s unity in the course of their professional duties. Professional counsellors should legal framework and advocacy platform for national unity discourse. Counsellors are encouraged to engage in collaborative efforts with government agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and other relevant stakeholders to organize seminars and workshops that address contemporary issues pertaining to national integration and unity.

EFFECT OF COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY ON MANAGING POST TRAUMATIC EXPERIENCE AMONG WIDOWS IN IKWERRE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF RIVERS STATE

Patience N. NWANKWO — 2025-08-01

This study examines the effect of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) on post-traumatic experiences and emotional well-being among widows in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria. Using a quasi-experimental design, the study involved 240 widows divided into an experimental group that received CBT and a control group that did not receive any specific intervention. The Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist – Civilian Version (PCL-C) and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) were used to measure posttraumatic symptoms and emotional well-being, respectively. The instruments undergo face validation by a panel of experts in psychology and trauma studies, who reviewed the items for clarity and appropriateness for the study population. Reliability was ensured by conducting a pilot study and the Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient was calculated with a value of 0.87. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, and ANCOVA. Results showed that CBT significantly reduced post-traumatic stress symptoms and improved emotional wellbeing in the experimental group, particularly among widows who had been widowed for less than five years. The findings suggest that early intervention through CBT can be highly effective in mitigating trauma-related symptoms and enhancing emotional health in widows. It was also found that the duration of widowhood moderated the effectiveness of the therapy. Based on the results, it is recommended that early intervention programs for widows be prioritized, and that alternative therapeutic approaches be considered for widows experiencing long-term bereavement.

EMOTIONAL ABUSE AMONG WORKING-CLASS WOMEN IN LAGOS STATE: IMPLICATION FOR COUNSELLING

Tiwalade, O. SORIYAN — 2025-08-01

This paper explores the incidence of emotional abuse among working-class women in Lagos State and its implications for counselling. The paper highlights the various forms of emotional abuse, including verbal abuse, isolation, and emotional blackmail, while also examining the root causes such as power imbalances, insecurity, cultural norms, and substance abuse. Emotional abuse in marriages is particularly prevalent, with long-term effects on the mental health, self-esteem, and well-being of victims. The paper further discusses the reasons women remain in abusive marriages, including fear, cultural pressures, economic dependence, and concerns about their children. It also emphasizes the role of counsellors in addressing emotional abuse by providing therapeutic support, promoting emotional healing, and empowering victims through techniques like Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), communication skills training, and conflict resolution strategies. The paper suggested that counsellors should engage in advocacy, continuous education, and collaborative efforts to raise awareness and improve support systems for victims.

EFFECT OF COGNITIVE BEHAVIOUR COUNSELLING ON CONDUCT AND SUBSTANCE RELATED DISORDERS AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN KEFFI, NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Vershima, M. TSEAA — 2025-08-01

This study investigated the effect of cognitive behaviour counselling on conduct and substance disorders among secondary school students in Keffi, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. The study adopted a two group quasi experimental design. A sample size of 88 SS2 students was used from a population of 566 SS2 students in Keffi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. A self structured questionnaire titled: cognitive behaviour counselling of conduct and substance disorders scale (CBCCSDS). The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Mean scores and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions while ANCOVA was used to test the hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The differences in the mean ratings between the experimental and control groups at pre test and post test were used to ascertain the extent of the effect. The result of the study revealed that there was a significant difference in the mean ratings of conduct disorder and substance related disorder among students exposed to cognitive behaviour counselling and those who were not exposed to the treatment. The study recommended that students should be counselled towards changing their conduct and substance related disorders.

EFFECTIVE COUNSELLING APPROACHES TO BEHAVIOUR MODIFICATION

Musa, A. MAIKAMBA — 2025-08-01

Behaviour modification is a central goal in counselling aiming to individuals replace maladaptive behaviours with more constructive ones. Effective counselling approaches to behaviour modification integrate evidence-based techniques from various psychological frameworks, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing , and person-centerd counselling. These approaches emphasize the importance of identifying the underlying cognitive , emotional, and environmental factors that influence behaviour, while promoting client engagement, goal-setting, and self-monitoring. This paper explores the principles and techniques that contribute to successful behaviour change, highlighting the role of therapeutic alliance, reinforcement strategies, and tailored interventions. The paper emphasized the necessity of a flexible, client-centred approach to ensure lasting behavioural transformation across diverse populations and settings