Authors : Oigene Sunday Michael; Ajibade Bayo Lawal; Aminu Dan Abu Bello; Nura Ishaq

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 3 - March

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/mff4c7na

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/3hhjef23

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26mar1660

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant mental health consequence of exposure to traumatic events such as armed conflict and banditry. In Nigeria, increasing insecurity—particularly in Zamfara State—has resulted in widespread psychological trauma among affected populations. This study evaluated the effectiveness of therapeutic communication in reducing PTSD symptoms among banditry victims in Yankaba community, Kaura Namoda. A quasi-experimental design was adopted, using purposive sampling technique to recruit 200 participants (100 intervention, 100 control). PTSD symptoms were assessed pre- and post-intervention using structured questionnaires based on DSM-5 and ICD-11 criteria. The intervention group received therapeutic communication sessions over 6 weeks. Findings revealed a high baseline prevalence of PTSD symptoms, including intrusion (80%), avoidance (97.8%), arousal (90%), and cognitive/mood alterations (100%). Post-intervention results showed a statistically significant reduction in PTSD symptoms among the intervention group (p < 0.001). Participants reported improved emotional expression, trust, coping ability, and psychological well-being. The study concludes that therapeutic communication is an effective, low-cost, and culturally adaptable intervention for managing PTSD among conflict-affected populations. Integration into community mental health services is recommended.

Keywords : Therapeutic Communication, PTSD, Banditry, Mental Health, Nigeria.

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