Children within the Juvenile Justice System in Nigeria: Psychopathology and Psychosocial Needs

RESUMO

Background: Many children in Nigeria face a life of poverty; family instability; inadequate educational opportunities and poor physical and mental health which hinder their ability to develop into healthy adults; live an improved quality of life or fulfil their life aspirations. These factors have also been associated with juvenile delinquency and need for institutional care. Objectives: As a step toward providing comprehensive services for incarcerated children in Nigeria; this study aimed to identify the psychosocial needs as well as types of psychopathology among a group of incarcerated children at the Ibadan remand home. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of children and adolescents at the Ibadan remand home was carried out using a semi-structured questionnaire. Results: A total of 59 children were assessed over a one year period. Majority (90) were in need of care and protection. All (100) had significant psychosocial needs presenting as difficulty with their primary support; economic; social environment; or educational systems. Majority (97) also demonstrated significant psychopathology and anxiety; suicidal and depressive symptoms were the most commonly elicited. Conclusions: Incarcerated children in this study showed significant mental health needs which need to be addressed as a matter of urgency. This should be carried out through the collaborative efforts of mental health professionals with various stakeholders in child care