Empowering Incarcerated Individuals: Solution-Focused Therapy for Reducing Tobacco Smoking Dependency Behaviour among Correctional Inmates in Oyo State, Nigeria

This study examined the effectiveness of Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) in reducing tobacco smoking dependency behaviour among incarcerated individuals within correctional settings in Oyo State. Anchored on social cognitive theory,which highlights the role of self-efficacy in behaviour change, the research was designed to address the pressing publichealth concern of tobacco smoking among the inmates.Conducted in two correctional facilities within the state, the study involved 36 participants randomly assigned to both theexperimental (SFT) and control group. The intervention group received tailored SFT sessions targeting tobacco smoking dependency behaviour, while the control group received standard care. Smoking abstinence self-efficacy was measured as amoderating factor using validated self-report measures. Pre- and post-intervention data were collected to assess changes intobacco smoking dependency behaviour.The findings indicated a significant main effect of SFT in reducing tobacco smoking dependency behaviour among the inmates. Participants in the intervention group showed greater reductions compared to the control group. Additionally, theexamination of smoking abstinence self-efficacy as a moderating factor revealed individual differences in treatment response, underscoring the importance of personalised interventions.This study established the effectiveness of Solution-Focused Therapy for the reduction of tobacco smoking dependency behaviour among inmates of correctional settings in Oyo State, Nigeria. Clinical/Counseling Psychologist should engage theintervention in addressing tobacco smoking dependency behaviour among their clients