Psychosocial profile of cultists in a Nigerian university: a preliminary report.
OBJECTIVE
To help stem cult activities on campuses by identifying motives for joining cult groups and highlighting psychosocial attributes/profile of a potential or already initiated cult member.


METHODS
Using snow-balling method, 25 consecutive consenting cult members of University of Ilorin were interviewed over a six month period using a semi-structured questionnaire. Those who had symptoms suggestive of psychiatric disorders were further assessed based on ICD-10 criteria. All patients with previous psychiatric illness were excluded.


RESULTS
A significant proportion of the respondents were first year, male, previously shy students from high socioeconomic background. There was a significant increase in the proportion of respondents who had palpitation, sweated more, felt bolder, and became current users of alcohol and tobacco after initiation. Also, there was a significant decrease in the proportion of respondents who slept well, felt accepted by friends and performed well in academic activities after initiation.


CONCLUSIONS
In spite of the small sample size and method of data collection, the preliminary findings in this study, could be useful in stemming the increasing menace of cultism among students in tertiary institutions. It was suggested that control of cult activities should be multidimensional with students, parents and university administration taking active parts. Establishment of 'Help Centres' on campuses was suggested.
Bamiso
Makanjuola Alfred
MA
University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Nigeria.
D000328:Adult; D000428:Alcohol Drinking / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009042:Motivation; D009549:Nigeria; D010379:Peer Group; D012907:Smoking / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000523:psychology; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology*; D014495:Universities / Q000706:statistics & numerical data