The role of peer support in promoting mental well-being among adolescents in Borno State
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Peer support has emerged as a vital factor in promoting mental well-being among adolescents. In Borno State, where social and economic challenges are compounded by the lingering effects of conflict, adolescents often experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. Peer support provides a unique mechanism for mitigating these mental health challenges by fostering a sense of belonging, offering emotional support, and facilitating the sharing of coping strategies. Adolescents tend to be more receptive to information and emotional support from their peers than from authority figures, making peer support programs particularly effective in this age group (Aminu, 2023; Suleiman, 2024). In Borno State, informal peer networks and organized support groups have shown promise in creating safe spaces where young people can discuss mental health issues without fear of judgment. These interventions not only help in early identification of mental health problems but also promote resilience and positive behavioral changes. However, the formal integration of peer support into mental health strategies remains limited, and there is a need to evaluate the effectiveness of these initiatives in improving mental well-being among adolescents. This study aims to assess the role of peer support in promoting mental health, with a focus on how structured peer-led programs can alleviate mental health challenges among adolescents in Borno State.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the recognized benefits of peer support, many adolescents in Borno State continue to experience significant mental health challenges due to limited formal mechanisms that harness peer networks for support. The ongoing social and economic instability in the region exacerbates issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress among young people (Ibrahim, 2023). While informal peer interactions do occur, they are often sporadic and unstructured, which limits their potential impact on mental well-being. Moreover, there is a lack of standardized programs that train peer educators to provide effective emotional and informational support. This gap results in missed opportunities for early intervention and prevention, leaving many adolescents without the necessary support to manage mental health issues. The absence of robust, evidence-based peer support programs undermines efforts to promote resilience and improve overall mental health among adolescents in Borno State. Addressing this issue requires a thorough evaluation of existing peer support initiatives and the development of scalable models that can be integrated into broader mental health strategies.
Objectives of the Study
1. To evaluate the effectiveness of peer support programs in promoting mental well-being among adolescents in Borno State.
2. To identify the factors that enhance or hinder the success of peer support networks.
3. To recommend strategies for establishing structured and sustainable peer support initiatives.
Research Questions
1. How effective are existing peer support initiatives in improving adolescent mental health in Borno State?
2. What are the key factors influencing the success of peer support networks?
3. What interventions can strengthen peer support systems for mental well-being?
Research Hypotheses
1. Adolescents participating in structured peer support programs exhibit lower levels of depression and anxiety.
2. Strong peer relationships are significantly associated with improved resilience among adolescents.
3. Training and formalization of peer support initiatives will enhance mental health outcomes.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study targets adolescents (aged 13-19) in selected schools and communities in Borno State. Data will be collected via surveys, focus group discussions, and interviews with program coordinators. Limitations include potential selection bias and the variability of informal peer support practices.
Definitions of Terms
• Peer Support: Assistance provided by individuals of similar age or social status to help others cope with challenges.
• Mental Well-Being: A state of emotional and psychological health.
• Resilience: The ability to recover from or adapt to adversity.
• Structured Programs: Organized initiatives with defined training and support components.
Related Project Materials
An assessment of the role of cooperatives in rural economic development in Egor Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria
Background of the Study
Cooperatives have long been recognized as vital instruments for promoting rural economic developme...
EXAMINING THE THE INTEGRATION OF BIOTECHNOLOGY EDUCATION IN VOCATIONAL TRAINING
ABSTRACT: Innovations in vocational education for space technology careers are essential for equipping the next generation of professionals wi...
An Evaluation of Tax Compliance Levels Among Nigerian SMEs: A Case Study of Abuja Municipal Area Council
Background of the Study
Tax compliance refers to the extent to which taxpayers adhere to tax laws and regulations. For SMEs...
An assessment of teachers' attitudes towards implementing sport education in primary schools in Fufore Local Government Area, Adamawa State.
Background of the Study
Teachers’ attitudes towards sport education are a critical determinant of the successful imp...
The Impact of Yoruba Phonology on Nigerian Social Media Discourse: A Case Study of Twitter Trends in Lagos
Background of the study
Social media has emerged as a dynamic platform where language evolves and adapts to new forms of digital communic...
An Investigation into the Barriers to HIV Treatment Uptake in Katsina State
Background of the Study
Access to HIV treatment, including antiretroviral therapy (A...
APPRAISAL OF INSURANCE POLICY IN INDIGENOUS CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES IN NIGERIA
Abstract
This research is carried out to appraise the insurance policy by indigenous construction compa...
The impact of political instability on local government projects: A study of Ohafia Local Government Area, Abia State
Background of the Study:
Political instability often undermines the execution and sustainability of local government projec...
The Impact of Employee Motivation on Organizational Productivity: A Study of Dangote Cement Plc in Kano State
Background of the Study
Employee motivation is a critical factor influencing organizational productivity. Motivated empl...
THE EFFECTS OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION ON CIVIC ENGAGEMENT IN DIVERSE COMMUNITIES
ABSTRACT: This study examined the Effects of Early Childhood Education on Civic Engagement in Diverse Commun...
