Factors Responsible for Kidnapping, Psychological Effects on Victims, and the Need for Guidance and Counselling Interventions

Abstract

Kidnapping remains a pervasive and traumatic crime that has far-reaching consequences for victims, their families, and society at large. This paper explores the multifaceted factors contributing to the prevalence of kidnapping, including poverty, insecurity, corruption, and drug abuse, which serve as underlying causes of this crime. The analysis further examines the profound psychological effects on victims, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), emotional trauma, acute anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation. In light of the mental health challenges faced by victims, the paper emphasises the critical role of guidance and counselling interventions in mitigating these effects. Trauma-informed psychological support, along with family and community-based counselling programmes, is essential to address the emotional and psychological distress experienced by victims and their families. The paper therefore highlights the concept, types, and prevalence of kidnapping, the factors responsible for its occurrence, its psychological effects, the impact of trauma on victims, and the need for guidance and counselling interventions. Based on the suggestions provided; government and relevant agencies should prioritise poverty reduction, enhance security, and implement community-wide education campaigns on personal safety, while making psychological counselling services accessible to victims of kidnapping to facilitate their recovery and reintegration.