Mind Over Smoke: Transformative Effects of Cognitive Reframing Therapy on Tobacco Smoking Dependency Behaviour among Male Inmates in Correctional Centres in Oyo State

Abstract

This study investigates tobacco smoking dependency behaviour among male inmates in correctional centres in Oyo State, Nigeria, with a focus on the effectiveness of Cognitive Reframing Therapy (CRT) and the moderating role of educational attainment. While previous research has primarily addressed the prevalence and contributing factors of smoking behaviours in correctional centres, this study emphasises psychological interventions. Employing an experimental design with pretest, posttest, intervention, and control groups, the research utilised a multistage sampling technique across three correctional centres. The Cigarette Dependence Behaviour Scale identified participants exceeding the threshold of tobacco dependency. Twenty-two inmates received CRT in Agodi, and fifteen served as the control group in Ogbomoso. Analysis revealed a significant main effect of CRT on reducing tobacco smoking dependency behaviour (F2, 41 = 48.40, p < 0.05, η2 = 0.489). The intervention group demonstrated a substantial decrease (mean score: 23.45) compared to the control group (mean score: 45.78). Educational attainment alone did not significantly impact the targeted behaviour, but a significant interaction effect was observed between CRT and educational attainment. The findings underscore the efficacy of CRT in addressing tobacco smoking dependency among correctional inmates, providing valuable insights for Clinical and Counselling Psychologists engaged in treating such behaviours.

Keywords: Tobacco Smoking Dependency Behaviour, Cognitive Reframing Therapy, Educational Attainment.