Substance Use Disorder and Reoffending Among Inmates Awaiting Trial in a Maximum Security Prison in Nigeria

Abstract

Aim and Objectives: The present study aimed to determine the prevalence of substance use disorder (SUD) and the relationship between inmates with SUD and those without SUD with reoffending. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was carried out among 366 male inmates awaiting trial in Jos maximum security prison, Plateau state (Nigeria). Two sets of questionnaires were used, namely General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) and the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI). Results: Prevalence of SUD was 32.8% (120) among inmates. Reoffending was statistically significant with SUD (p < 0.001). Conclusion: These results suggest a significant rate of SUD among awaiting trial inmates. It also shows a significant difference between SUD and reoffending.

Keywords

• forensic science
• substance use
• reoffending
• prison
• awaiting trial
• prevalence