PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF PROLONGED PROTESTS ON PARTICIPANTS AND COMMUNITIES (A CASE STUDY OF ENDBADGOVERNANCE PROTEST IN NIGERIA)
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Protests, especially when prolonged and widespread, can have significant psychological effects on both participants and the communities involved. The EndBadGovernance protests in Nigeria, which began in 2024, provide a relevant case study to explore these psychological impacts. These protests, driven by widespread dissatisfaction with government corruption and economic mismanagement, saw extensive participation across major Nigerian cities including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt (Channelstv, 2024; Aljazeera, 2024).
The prolonged nature of the EndBadGovernance protests, coupled with the high level of public engagement, created a unique environment for studying psychological effects. Participants experienced heightened stress, anxiety, and fatigue, while communities faced disruptions that affected their daily lives and mental well-being. Understanding these psychological effects is crucial for addressing the broader impacts of prolonged protests and developing strategies to support affected individuals and communities.
Psychological research on protest movements indicates that prolonged exposure to stressful and contentious environments can lead to various mental health issues. These include increased rates of anxiety, depression, and trauma among participants, as well as broader social impacts such as reduced community cohesion and increased fear or mistrust of authorities (Premium Times, 2024; Punchng, 2024).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The EndBadGovernance protests in Nigeria brought to light significant psychological effects on both participants and communities. Despite the focus on the political and social aspects of the protests, there is limited research on the mental health impacts of prolonged participation in such movements. The central problem is understanding how extended exposure to protest environments affects the mental well-being of individuals and the overall psychological state of communities (Channelstv, 2024; Aljazeera, 2024).
This study aims to address this gap by exploring the psychological effects of the EndBadGovernance protests. It seeks to understand the mental health challenges faced by participants and the broader impacts on community well-being, and to provide insights into how these effects can be mitigated.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Significance of the Study
This study is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it sheds light on the often-overlooked psychological effects of prolonged protests, providing a deeper understanding of the mental health challenges faced by participants and communities. This insight is crucial for developing targeted interventions and support systems to help those affected by such movements.
Secondly, the findings can inform policymakers, mental health professionals, and protest organizers about the psychological impacts of protests and the importance of addressing mental health needs. By highlighting these effects, the study contributes to more comprehensive protest management strategies that include mental health support.
Lastly, the research adds to the broader field of psychological and social studies by exploring the intersection of prolonged protest participation and mental health, offering valuable lessons for future research and practice.
1.6 Scope and Delimitation of the Study
The study focuses on the psychological effects of the EndBadGovernance protests in Nigeria, particularly examining the experiences of participants and the impact on affected communities. It covers the period of the protests in 2024 and may not address long-term effects beyond this timeframe. The scope is limited to urban centers where the protests were most intense and may not fully capture experiences from rural or less populated areas.
1.7 Operational Definition of Terms
EndBadGovernance Protests: A series of demonstrations in Nigeria aimed at addressing issues of poor governance, corruption, and economic mismanagement.
Psychological Effects: Mental health outcomes resulting from exposure to prolonged stressors, including anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Participants: Individuals actively involved in the protests, including demonstrators, organizers, and activists.
Communities: The broader groups of people living in areas affected by the protests, experiencing disruptions and psychological impacts due to the prolonged demonstrations.
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