Impact of Social Support in Reducing Anxiety and Depression of Women Exposed to Violent Conflicts in Plateau State, Nigeria

Authors

  • Beatrice Zuhumben Department of Educational Foundation, Faculty of Education University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos Author
  • Gafar Isiaka Unit of Distance Education, Faculty of Education, University of Pretoria Author

Keywords:

anxiety, depression, social support, violent conflicts, women

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of social support in reducing anxiety and depression among women exposed to violent conflicts in Plateau State, Nigeria. Using a quasi-experimental design, 100 women in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps were selected through a multi-stage sampling process and assigned to either a treatment group receiving social support or a control group. The Depression and Anxiety Scale (DASS), with a reliability index of 0.90, was used to assess participants' psychological status. Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) revealed significant differences in post-test mean scores on anxiety and depression levels between the treatment and control groups. The finding indicates that social support was effective in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms. The findings highlight the importance of prioritizing social support as a key component of interventions to promote the psychological well-being of women affected by conflict. The study's results underscore the need for a comprehensive approach that incorporates social support, mental health services, and community-based initiatives to support the mental health and well-being of women exposed to violent conflicts.

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Author Biography

  • Beatrice Zuhumben, Department of Educational Foundation, Faculty of Education University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos

    Dr. Beatrice Paul Zuhumben is an Educational Psychologist, Professional Counsellor, and School Administrator based in Nigeria. She holds a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology with Best Theis in Humanities from the University of Lagos, with prior degrees in Educational Psychology and Guidance and Counselling. She currently serves as Chief Administrative Officer at Peret Diamond School, Lagos, and works as an adjunct lecturer and part-time school counsellor.

    Her scholarly interests focus on adolescent development, teenage pregnancy, early marriage, psychosocial well-being, social support, violent conflict, and educational outcomes among vulnerable populations. Dr. Zuhumben has published widely in reputable national and international journals, with particular emphasis on women and adolescents in conflict-affected and internally displaced communities in Nigeria.

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Published

25.03.2026

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 1 (2026): International Journal of Contemporary Security Studies (First Online - Accepted Papers)

Section

International Journal of Contemporary Security Studies

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Copyright (c) 2026 Beatrice Zuhumben, Gafar Isiaka (Author)

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How to Cite

Zuhumben, B. ., & Isiaka, G. . (2026). Impact of Social Support in Reducing Anxiety and Depression of Women Exposed to Violent Conflicts in Plateau State, Nigeria. International Journal of Contemporary Security Studies, 2(1), 71-80. https://contemporarysecuritystudies.com/journal/article/view/61

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