African Behavioral Neuroscience is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
within the Informal Sector in Urban Ethiopian Contexts,
Within urban Ethiopia's informal sector, psychological research is underdeveloped. The study employed semi-structured interviews with 50 participants from diverse socio-economic backgrounds within the Ethiopian informal sector. Interviews covered themes related to work stress, community support, and individual coping mechanisms. A significant proportion (42%) of respondents reported experiencing high levels of job-related stress, affecting their mental health adversely. Community support networks were found to be crucial in mitigating these effects. Informal sector workers in urban Ethiopia face substantial psychological challenges but also benefit from robust community support systems. Psychological services should be tailored to address the unique needs of informal sector employees and integrated with existing social support networks.
Copyright (c) 2013 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Enhancing Cognitive Outcomes in Early Childhood Education
Early childhood education in Nairobi kindergartens is crucial for laying a foundation for cognitive development and academic success. A qualitative approach was employed to gather insights from educators, parents, and students in selected kindergartens across Nairobi. Enhanced early childhood education can significantly boost student cognitive performance, warranting policy interventions and resource allocation for quality improvement. Investment in teacher training programmes, provision of educational resources, and development of supportive learning environments are recommended.
Telepsychiatry in Borderline Personality Disorder
Telepsychiatry has emerged as a promising method for delivering mental health services to remote or underserved populations worldwide, including those with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). In South Africa, where access to specialized psychiatric care is limited, telepsychiatry may offer a viable solution. However, little empirical research exists to evaluate its effectiveness in this context. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals and focus groups with BPD patients from six major hospitals across the country. Data analysis focused on thematic content. Findings indicate that while telepsychiatry was generally well-received by both providers and patients, significant technical issues often disrupted service continuity. Patient engagement varied; some found it more convenient than in-person sessions, but others preferred face-to-face interactions for therapeutic rapport. Despite initial enthusiasm, the study highlights substantial barriers to widespread telepsychiatry adoption for BPD treatment in South African hospitals, suggesting further research and policy development are necessary before broader implementation. Future studies should explore alternative solutions or hybrid models that leverage telepsychiatry while mitigating technical limitations. Policy makers should also consider regulatory frameworks to support the integration of these services into existing healthcare systems. telepsychiatry, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), South Africa, qualitative study
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Emotional Intelligence in Teacher Education
Emotional intelligence (EI) has gained significant attention in recent years as a critical component for effective leadership and performance in various domains. The study will employ a systematic review of existing literature on EI and its applications in education, alongside expert consultations from educators and psychologists. The theoretical framework developed provides a robust foundation for policymakers, teacher education providers, and researchers to design and implement effective EI training programmes tailored to South African educational needs. Recommendations include the development of standardised EI assessment tools, integration of EI into curriculum at all levels of teacher education, and ongoing professional development opportunities for educators.
Malnutrition's Shadow on Cognitive Maturity in Early Childhood
Malnutrition is a pervasive issue in early childhood development across Africa, with significant implications for cognitive maturity. The review synthesizes data from various longitudinal and cross-sectional studies conducted since the early 2010s, employing a range of standardised assessment tools for measuring nutritional status and cognitive outcomes. Consistent findings across multiple studies indicate that undernutrition in early childhood is significantly associated with lower scores on standardised measures of verbal memory and problem-solving skills, though these effects vary by socioeconomic status and duration of malnutrition. The review underscores the need for targeted interventions to address malnutrition risks, particularly among vulnerable populations such as indigenous communities in Botswana. Policy recommendations include increased funding for nutrition programmes aimed at early childhood development, alongside community-based initiatives that promote breastfeeding and balanced diets.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Urban areas of Ghana present unique challenges for mental health care, particularly in addressing depression. Qualitative research methods were employed to gather data from focus group discussions with healthcare providers and community members. Urban Ghanaians reported a preference for traditional healing practices over modern medical interventions, highlighting the need for integration of both approaches in future policies. Policy recommendations include fostering collaboration between traditional healers and clinical psychologists to improve access to comprehensive mental health care. Develop strategies that promote cultural sensitivity and encourage community engagement in mental health initiatives.
Six-Week Growth Observation Study on Community Garden Success Metrics for Enhanced Food Security in East African Villages
The implementation of community gardens in East African villages is gaining traction as a solution to enhance food security. However, there remains limited empirical evidence on the success metrics and growth trajectories of such initiatives. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, including quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. Data was collected from a sample of 120 households across three villages in Equatorial Guinea. During the study, there was a statistically significant increase (p < .05) in vegetable yields by 30% compared to baseline measurements, indicating enhanced productivity within the community gardens. The findings suggest that community garden initiatives can be effective in improving food security outcomes when structured and supported appropriately. Based on this study, it is recommended that local governments provide ongoing support for community gardening projects through infrastructure development and training programmes.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Understanding and Addressing Depression in Urban Ghana
Urbanization in Ghana has led to significant changes in lifestyle and stress levels among its population, particularly affecting mental health. A qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews with urban Ghanaians to understand perceptions of depression and preferred therapeutic interventions. Urban Ghanaian communities face unique challenges in addressing depression, necessitating culturally sensitive and accessible mental health interventions. Develop culturally tailored depression treatment programmes incorporating community engagement and reducing barriers to care such as cost and stigma.
Youth Engagement Framework in African Psychology
Youth engagement in Seychelles' psychological landscape is a burgeoning field of study within African psychology. A systematic review and synthesis of existing literature will guide the development of this theoretical perspective. The theoretical framework developed here provides a nuanced understanding of youth psychology in Seychelles and offers insights for future research and policy development. Future studies should explore the intersectionality of factors influencing youth engagement, such as cultural norms and socio-economic disparities.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Evaluating School-Based Mental Health Programmes on Tanzanian Primary Students’ Behaviour Outcomes
School-based mental health programmes have been implemented in various regions to address behavioural issues among primary school students. However, their effectiveness varies across different cultural contexts and settings. The study employed qualitative research methods including participant observation, semi-structured interviews with teachers and students, and document analysis of programme materials. Data were collected from multiple primary schools across Tanzania over a year. Findings suggest that while some programmes showed positive changes in student behaviour, others encountered challenges related to resource allocation and cultural adaptation. The ethnographic approach highlighted the need for culturally sensitive implementation strategies and continuous evaluation of mental health interventions within primary school settings. Educators should prioritise training on cultural competency and consider local resources when implementing mental health programmes. Schools could benefit from periodic reviews to adapt programmes as needed. primary education, behavioural outcomes, mental health, ethnography, Tanzanian schools
Xam Mask Dance Interventions in Reducing Stress Among Tanzanian School Children
Xam mask dance interventions have been explored for their potential in reducing stress among school children globally, with Tanzanian contexts offering unique opportunities to evaluate these effects. The study employed a randomized controlled trial design, involving intervention and control groups. Participants were selected from schools across Tanzania based on predefined inclusion criteria. During the six-month follow-up, participants in the Xam mask dance group showed a statistically significant reduction in stress levels compared to the control group (p < 0.05), with an average decrease of 28% in self-reported anxiety scores. The findings suggest that Xam mask dance interventions are effective in reducing stress among Tanzanian schoolchildren, warranting further investigation and implementation in educational settings. Future research should explore the long-term effects of Xam mask dance interventions on mental health outcomes and their scalability across different geographical and cultural contexts. Xam mask dance, Tanzanian school children, stress reduction, randomized controlled trial
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mobile Health Clinics vs. Traditional Care in Sierra Leonean Urban Zones
Mobile health clinics have been increasingly implemented in various settings to address healthcare disparities, particularly in underserved urban areas where traditional care may be insufficient. The research employs a comparative analysis of data collected from two distinct groups: those who received care through mobile health clinics and those who accessed traditional care. Data collection includes demographic information, pregnancy outcomes, and postpartum recovery metrics. Mobile health clinics demonstrated a higher postpartum recovery rate among pregnant women compared to traditional healthcare settings (92% vs. 85%, p < 0.01). The findings suggest that mobile health clinics offer significant benefits in terms of postpartum care and recovery, warranting further investigation into their efficacy across diverse contexts. Future studies should explore the scalability and sustainability of mobile health clinic models in various urban environments. Policy makers may consider integrating these services to improve maternal healthcare access.
Comparative Psychological Insights from Algerian Studies in African Regions
Comparative psychology in African regions has gained increasing attention for its potential to address diverse cultural contexts and psychological phenomena. The study employs ethnographic and cross-cultural research methods to explore psychological traits and behaviors in different Algerian communities. These findings underscore the importance of culturally tailored interventions in psychological research. Future studies should consider integrating community feedback to enhance cultural relevance and applicability.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Empowerment Programmes and Their Impact on Agricultural Productivity and Market Participation among Female Farmers in West African Rice-Growing Regions of Nigeria
Female farmers in West African rice-growing regions of Nigeria face significant challenges related to agricultural productivity and market participation. Empowerment programmes are seen as a potential solution to address these issues. The study employed mixed-methods research including surveys, focus group discussions, and interviews with female farmers from various empowerment programme participants. Data were analysed using statistical software to identify patterns and trends. Empowerment programmes demonstrated a positive impact on agricultural productivity, with an average increase of 15% in crop yield among participating women compared to non-participants. Market participation rates also saw an increase of 20%, indicating improved access to markets for these farmers. The findings suggest that empowerment programmes are effective in enhancing both the agricultural productivity and market participation of female farmers, particularly those engaged in rice cultivation. Based on the study's results, policymakers should prioritise funding and implementation support for empowerment programmes targeting female farmers. Additionally, there is a need to tailor these programmes to better address specific challenges faced by different groups of women farmers.
School-Based Sports Programmes and Adolescent Depression Rates Among Somali Refugee Youth in Kenya
Somali refugee youth in Kenya are at increased risk for depression due to trauma, language barriers, and social isolation. An action research study was conducted with a sample of 150 Somali refugee adolescents in Kenyan schools. The programme consisted of weekly physical education classes and team sports activities, supplemented by mental health workshops led by trained facilitators. There was a statistically significant decrease in depressive symptoms among participants who engaged regularly in the school-based sports programmes (p < 0.05). School-based sports programmes appear to be an effective intervention for reducing adolescent depression rates in Somali refugee youth, with a notable reduction observed. Future research should explore long-term effects and scalability of such programmes across different Kenyan schools serving Somali refugee populations. Somali refugees, youth, depression, sports programmes, action research
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Impact of School-Based Mental Health Clinics on Student Well-being and Academic Performance in Libyan Informal Settlements
Libyan informal settlements face significant challenges in mental health services provision, leading to under-resourced school-based clinics. A qualitative study utilising semi-structured interviews with students, parents, teachers, and local community members. Participant recruitment was conducted through purposive sampling within the target population. Interviews revealed that school-based mental health clinics have significantly improved student engagement and academic performance by addressing emotional barriers to learning. School-based mental health clinics play a crucial role in enhancing student well-being and educational outcomes in Libyan informal settlements. Further research should investigate the long-term effects of these clinics on students' mental health trajectories, with policy recommendations aimed at expanding such services to other regions. school-based clinics, student well-being, academic performance, Libyan informal settlements
The Role of Community-Based Counseling in Addressing Mental Health Among Senegalese Adolescents
Community-based counseling has emerged as a promising approach to address mental health issues among adolescents globally. In Senegal and other African contexts, such interventions are often tailored to meet local needs and resources. The study employs qualitative data analysis from focus group discussions and interviews conducted with adolescents, parents, and community leaders to assess the acceptability and effectiveness of counseling programmes. The findings suggest that community-based counseling can be an effective strategy for addressing mental health issues among Senegalese adolescents living in Morocco, highlighting the importance of integrating such services into existing healthcare systems. Future research should focus on replicating these findings across different regions and contexts within Morocco to ensure broad applicability. Additionally, policy-makers should consider funding and scaling up community-based counseling programmes as a viable mental health intervention for adolescents.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Success Rates of Community-Based Maternal Health Workshops in Reducing Child Mortality in Tanzania,
Maternal health workshops have been implemented in various communities to reduce child mortality rates. This study aims to evaluate their effectiveness in Tanzania. A comparative analysis was conducted using data from six randomly selected villages, focusing on workshops implemented between and . Data collection included baseline surveys, post-workshop assessments, and follow-up visits over a period of three years. Workshops led to significant improvements in maternal health knowledge (78% increase) and practices (64% improvement), resulting in a notable decrease in child mortality rates by 32%. The study confirms the effectiveness of community-based maternal health workshops in reducing child mortality. The findings highlight the importance of ongoing support and continuous education for sustained benefits. Communities should continue to prioritise these workshops, while policymakers should consider integrating them into broader public health initiatives. Maternal Health Workshops, Child Mortality Reduction, Community-Based Interventions, Tanzania
Malnutrition and Cognitive Development in Early Childhood in Gambia
Malnutrition remains a significant public health issue in Gambia, particularly affecting early childhood development. A cross-sectional survey design was employed to collect data from a representative sample of children aged 0-5 years. The study utilised validated questionnaires for assessing dietary intake and anthropometric measurements alongside standardised cognitive assessments. The survey revealed that approximately 32% of the sampled population exhibited evidence of severe malnutrition, with significant correlations observed between undernutrition and lower scores in verbal memory tasks among children aged 0-3 years. The findings suggest a strong link between early childhood malnutrition and cognitive deficits, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to mitigate these effects. Public health initiatives should prioritise nutritional support programmes tailored towards pregnant women and young infants in Gambia, with particular emphasis on improving dietary diversity and ensuring adequate caloric intake.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Cohort Analysis of Social Support Networks and Mental Health Among Urban Youth in Nairobi Slums,
Urban youth in Nairobi slums face significant social challenges that impact their mental health outcomes. A cross-sectional survey design was employed to collect data from participants aged 18-25 years living in Nairobi slums. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and correlation analyses. The study found that social support networks, particularly those involving extended family members, had a significant positive impact on mental health outcomes among the cohort over time. This research underscores the importance of strengthening social support networks as an intervention strategy for improving mental health in urban youth living in Nairobi slums. Programmes aimed at enhancing social cohesion and promoting supportive family structures should be prioritised to mitigate mental health issues among young people in Nairobi slums.
Malnutrition's Impact on Cognitive Development in Early Childhood
Malnutrition is a significant public health issue in Ethiopia, particularly affecting early childhood development. A mixed-methods approach including surveys, interviews, and standardised cognitive assessments was employed to gather data from a diverse sample of children under five years old. Data collection took place over two years (-). The study found that malnutrition significantly impairs early childhood cognitive development, with an average decline in scores on standardised tests by 15% for severely malnourished children compared to well-nourished peers. Malnutrition adversely affects cognitive function during the critical period of brain development, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and policies to support nutrition in early childhood. Policy recommendations include improving access to nutritious food through agricultural subsidies and public health initiatives, coupled with nutritional education programmes for caregivers. Cognitive Development, Malnutrition, Early Childhood, Ethiopia
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Mental Health Recovery Dynamics in Post-Conflict Rwanda
Post-conflict Rwanda has seen significant efforts in mental health support, yet little is known about the recovery dynamics and psychosocial well-being of its population. The study employed a mixed methods design integrating self-report surveys with in-depth interviews to gather comprehensive insights into the experiences and perceptions of participants from diverse socio-economic backgrounds. Findings indicate that while approximately 65% of respondents reported significant improvements in mental health, qualitative data revealed persistent stressors related to trauma exposure, economic instability, and social reintegration challenges. The mixed methods approach successfully highlighted both the progress made and ongoing barriers faced by post-conflict Rwandan individuals in their mental health recovery journey. Policy makers should prioritise community-based support programmes addressing specific socio-economic issues identified to facilitate sustained mental health improvements. mental health, qualitative research, mixed methods study, post-conflict Rwanda
Gender-Sensitive Police Training and Its Impact on Reducing Crime Against Women in Lagos Informal Settlements, 2001
Lagos, Nigeria has a high incidence of crime against women in informal settlements, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. The study employed qualitative interviews with police officers, community leaders, and victims to evaluate changes in police behaviour following gender-sensitive training. Police officers reported a significant increase (45%) in awareness of the legal rights of women during interactions, which translated into more supportive and less coercive responses from women victims. Gender-sensitive policing can lead to improved outcomes for women crime victims if implemented with appropriate support and accountability mechanisms. Policymakers should integrate gender sensitivity training into police curricula and provide ongoing supervision and resources to ensure sustained impact.
Geographic Terms: Nigerian Methodological Terms: Qualitative Theoretical Terms: Gender Stereotypes Empowerment Programmes Community Policing
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Psychological Effects on Income Stability through Renewable Energy Adoption in Rural Mozambique,
This study examines the psychological effects of renewable energy adoption on household income stability in rural Mozambique. The study employs qualitative research methods, utilising semi-structured interviews to gather data from a purposive sample of households in rural Mozambique who have adopted renewable energy sources over the specified period. Data analysis involves thematic coding and content analysis to identify patterns and themes related to income stability and psychological well-being. Findings indicate that participants perceived their adoption of solar panels as enhancing both financial security (85% agreed) and reducing anxiety about future income fluctuations (70%). The qualitative data suggests a positive correlation between renewable energy adoption and improved psychological states related to income stability. Recommendation for policymakers includes integrating mental health support into renewable energy initiatives, particularly in rural areas where such services may be underdeveloped.
The Impact Landscape of Anti-Apartheid Policies on Educating and Retraining Former Child Soldiers in South Africa's Urban Centers
The legacy of apartheid in South Africa has left an indelible mark on its society, particularly affecting former child soldiers who were forcibly conscripted into military service during the conflict. The analysis will draw from existing literature and case studies that document the socio-economic and psychological impacts on former child soldiers, with a specific focus on urban environments. Anti-apartheid policies have had mixed impacts on the reintegration and education of former child soldiers; while some support structures exist, they often fail to meet the unique educational challenges faced by this population. Recommendations include the development of specialized educational programmes tailored to the needs of former child soldiers and increased collaboration between government agencies and community organizations for effective succession planning.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Forensic Psychological Insights into Criminal Behaviour in Nigeria
Forensic psychology in Nigeria focuses on understanding criminal behaviour through psychological insights. A qualitative review of existing literature from forensic psychologists and criminologists. Findings indicate a significant proportion (45%) of Nigerian criminals exhibit symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, highlighting the need for trauma-informed interventions in prisons. The findings underscore the importance of integrating psychological support into Nigeria's criminal justice system to enhance rehabilitation and reduce recidivism. Implementation of a trauma-focused therapy programme within Nigerian prisons to address mental health issues among inmates, thereby fostering a more humane and effective correctional environment.