Effect of bibliotherapy on unruly behaviour of young people in correctional homes in Lagos state, Nigeria

Abstract

Bibliotherapy (use of books) is employed in this study with the intention to control the behaviour of young girls' resident in a correctional home. This is relevant to the work of school librarians because they can help to find appropriate books that would influence positively the behaviour of young people in correctional homes. Thirty-six female participants took part in the bibliotherapy sessions that made use of Focus Group Discussion (FGD). These girls were separated into two categories - child offenders (17 girls) and out of parental control (19 girls). The study employed the use of a Nigerian authored story book which was read to them during the FGD for 10 weeks. The study found that after reading and discussion of themes in the book, the participants had more understanding of what good behaviour entailed. The juveniles were able to gain insight into their problems, take rational control over their feelings and actions, and developed abilities to confront social inadequacies with the readiness to be reintegrated into the society.