THERAPEUTIC MEASURES FOR PEDOPHILES: FINDINGS FROM DUTSE CUSTODIAL CENTRE, JIGAWA STATE

Abstract

This study examined the therapeutic measures employed for individuals convicted of child sexual offences at the Nigerian Correctional Service, Dutse Command. The research aimed to explore the forms of intervention available, inmate participation, and their perceived effectiveness. A qualitative design was adopted, and data were collected through unstructured interviews with 16 participants, comprising 12 incarcerated individuals and 4 correctional officers. The data were transcribed, translated, and thematically analyzed. Findings revealed four major themes. First, factors influencing offending behavior included poverty, unemployment, peer influence, poor upbringing, and childhood victimization. Second, therapeutic interventions such as counseling, religious sermons, moral support, and vocational training were perceived as transformative, fostering identity change and prosocial behavior. Third, barriers to rehabilitation included inadequate facilities, insufficient welfare support, limited cooperation from inmates, and the persistence of punitive practices. Finally, reintegration needs and aspirations centered on employment, education, family support, and community acceptance as conditions for sustaining desistance. Overall, the study indicates that therapeutic measures contribute to reform and reintegration but remain constrained by institutional, social, and resource limitations.