Effect of Empathy and Unconditional Positive Regard Counselling Techniques on the Self-Concept of Juvenil Delinquents in Nasarawa State

Abstract

This study employs a quasi-experimental, pre-test post-test control group design to investigate the effects of Empathy and Unconditional Positive Regard Counselling Techniques on the self-concept of juvenile delinquents in Nasarawa State. The main objective is to examine the effectiveness of these techniques in enhancing self-concept among inmates in Remand Homes. Two research questions and corresponding null hypotheses were formulated. The population consisted of 60 juvenile delinquents, from which a sample of 36 (18 males, 18 females) was selected from Keffi and Lafia Correctional Centres. Participants were grouped into three: 9 received Empathy Counselling, 9 received Unconditional Positive Regard Counselling, and 18 served as a control group. The Behavioral Assessment Scale (BAS) Test (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition or DSM-5 Symptoms Checklist) was adapted to assess self-concept. The intervention lasted for 12 weeks. Descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) were used to answer the research questions. Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) was used to test the hypotheses at the 0.05 level of significance, with pre-test scores as covariates and post-test scores as the dependent variable. The findings revealed that both Empathy Counselling and Unconditional Positive Regard Counselling Techniques significantly enhanced the self-concept of juvenile delinquents compared to the control group. It is recommended that structured treatment packages incorporating both techniques be used in remand homes and clinical settings, and that mental health professionals be trained in their application to reduce juvenile delinquency and improve self-concept.