Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This research project aims to investigate the effect of a need-focused cognitive restructuring intervention programme on the self-esteem and self-efficacy of recidivist inmates in Nigerian prisons. Recidivism, the tendency for released prisoners to re-offend, is a significant issue in Nigeria's criminal justice system, leading to overcrowded prisons and increased strain on resources. Low self-esteem and self-efficacy have been identified as factors contributing to recidivism, making them important targets for intervention. The study will involve a sample of recidivist inmates from selected prisons in Nigeria who will participate in a structured need-focused cognitive restructuring intervention programme. The programme will incorporate cognitive-behavioral techniques aimed at challenging and modifying maladaptive thought patterns that contribute to low self-esteem and self-efficacy. The intervention will be delivered over a specified period, with regular sessions to monitor progress and provide support. Quantitative and qualitative measures will be used to assess the impact of the intervention on the self-esteem and self-efficacy of participants. Standardized self-report measures will be utilized to gather data on self-esteem and self-efficacy levels before, during, and after the intervention. In addition, qualitative interviews will be conducted to gather in-depth insights into participants' experiences and perceptions of the intervention. It is hypothesized that participation in the need-focused cognitive restructuring intervention programme will lead to significant improvements in the self-esteem and self-efficacy of recidivist inmates. By targeting these psychological factors, the intervention aims to empower participants with the cognitive and emotional skills necessary to resist re-offending behaviors and make positive life changes upon release. The findings of this research have the potential to inform the development of more effective rehabilitation programmes for recidivist inmates in Nigerian prisons. By addressing underlying issues such as self-esteem and self-efficacy, interventions can target the root causes of criminal behavior and support individuals in their journey towards successful reintegration into society. Ultimately, this research seeks to contribute to the promotion of rehabilitation and reduced rates of recidivism in the Nigerian criminal justice system.

Thesis Overview

This study investigated the effect of Need-Focused Cognitive Restructuring Intervention Programme (NEFCRIP) on the self-esteem and self-efficacy of recidivist inmates in the zone G of the Nigeria prison service. The design of the study was a post-test only control group design. There were six research questions and six corresponding hypotheses raised to guide the study. The sample of the study was 74 recidivist inmates purposively selected from six prisons out of the 11 medium prisons in zone G with a total population of 105 recidivists. The participants were assigned to experimental and control groups. Inmates in the experimental group received Need-Focused Cognitive Restructuring Intervention Programme (NEFCRIP). The programme emphasized positive thinking and positive values, cognitive restructuring, coping skills and positive self-talk as strategies for building self-esteem and self-efficacy. The control group received a placebo-conventional counselling. Inmate’s Self-esteem (ISES) and Self-efficacy (ISEFS) scales were the instruments used for data collection. Data were analyzed using means and standard deviations while ANOVA was used to test the hypotheses at .05 probability level. Results showed that, NEFCRIP had significant effect on the self-esteem and self-efficacy of recidivist inmates in Nigeria prisons. The interaction between NEFCRIP and gender on self-esteem and self-efficacy of recidivist was not significant. It was concluded among others that Need-focused cognitive restructuring intervention programme (NEFCRIP) significantly is an effective cognitive based intervention programme that can be used to treat low self-esteem and low self-efficacy prevalent among recidivist inmates. Based on the findings, it was recommended that psychological services/counselling that is cognitive based should be set up as a regular programme in the Nigeria prisons. Workshops and seminars should be organized by the Ministry of Interior for the training of welfare officers some of whom are not trained psychologists or counsellors on how to use NEFCRIP in the prisons to improve the low self-esteem and self-efficacy of recidivist inmates. Need-focused cognitive restructuring intervention programme should form part of the counselling programmes for the inmates in Nigeria prison.