Benue State University, Makurdi

Multi-ethnicity and the challenges of developing indigenous psychological intervention tools in Nigeria

Chia Ngosoo Perpetua Ph.D & Labe Ransome Msughve
(Department of Psychology, Benue State University, Makurdi, Nigeria +2347062663826, uchoaondoaver@yahoo.com)

Abstract

The purpose of this paper was to identify and analyze perceived challenges of developing indigenous psychological tests in a multiethnic society like Nigeria. A holistic picture of the trajectory of socio-cultural issues, language barrier, politics of ethnicity, discrimination and how they may confound the exercise is discussed. Scientifically, development of indigenous psychological tests for clinical assessment must absolutely recognize the cultural background of the people which is rooted in their beliefs, values and practices related to manifestation of psychopathology. In view of this it is expedient that we should embark on modifying, and re-standardizing the Nigerian and Western psychological tests to fit the Nigerians multicultural background and knowledge of content of the items of the test. They should also engage in the exercise of translating the tests developed by Nigerian and Western Psychologists in major languages or forms with sustainable internal and external validity. This hopefully will enhance the process of psychological assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental illness with fewer impediments.

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