IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

RESEARCH JOURNAL OF HUMANITIES AND CULTURAL STUDIES (RJHCS )

E-ISSN 2579-0528
P-ISSN 2695-2467
VOL. 11 NO. 3 2025
DOI: 10.56201/rjhcs.v11.no3.2025.pg23.28

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Optimism and Psychological Distress among Inmates of Correctional Centres in Benue State

Moses Terlumun Aondoakaa, Samuel Terzungwe Anhange PhD, Pauline Aiingona Atsehe PhD

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Abstract

The incidence and prevalence of psychological distress has been reported to be higher among custodial populations than the general population globally. Yet, not much attention is given to the state of psychological distress among inmates of correctional centres in Benue State. This study thus examined optimism and psychological distress among inmates of correctional centres in Benue State. The study employed a cross-sectional survey design, utilizing inmates in correctional centres in Benue State, comprising 295 (91.9%) males and 26 (8.1%) females. Their ages ranged from 16 – 66years (Mean age=37years, SD=1.08). The Life Orientation Test – Revised (LOT-R) and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale were used for data collection. Data analysis involved the use of Simple Linear Regression. Findings revealed that, optimism had a significant negative influence on psychological distress among the inmates of correctional centres in Benue State. The study made recommendations bordering on the need for correctional authorities to provide optimism training for inmates in correctional centres as a way of preventing, managing and mitigating the effect of psychological distress among inmates of correctional centres in Benue State in particular and Nigeria at large.

keywords:

Optimism, Psychological Distress, Inmates

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