Local Nongovernmental Organization Intervention Approaches in Nigeria's Communities Experiencing Continuous Trauma
Abstract
Researchers have found an overlap of psychological symptoms in victims of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Continuous Traumatic Stress. Although the circumstances inducing the psychological reactions are different, the symptoms mimic one another without a clear cut demarcation, calling for practitioners to be cautious of contexts inducing psychopathology that is triggered through re-experiencing of past trauma when they are assessing and intervening with ongoing trauma-exposed communities. This study explored the subjective experiences of 15 local Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) administrators in Nigeria across 5 states, including the federal capital Abuja, about the intersectionality of their clients' persistent trauma experiences and their program planning and intervention strategies. The study leveraged complexity and organizational change models, using qualitative inquiry with open ended interview questions and purposive sampling. Questions probed administrators' modalities, orientations, and perceptions that inform organizational planning and interventions. Open-ended interviews of top local NGO administrators provided contrasting insights on current interventions. Data were collected and analyzed using constant comparative content analysis. Findings suggest that local NGO administrators currently lack the awareness and capacity to address their clients' psychosocial, behavioral, and mental health issues that are related to continuous, direct, and indirect violence. The study impacts social change by identifying gaps in current NGO administrators' efforts to reduce effects of violence and support peace in affected communities.
