RAPE PREVENTION IN CONTEMPORARY NIGERIAN SOCIETY: THE ROLE OF GUIDANCE COUNSELLORS IN THE 21ST CENTURY

Abstract

Rape is a criminal act of sexual misconduct that violates the dignity of victims andthreatens their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. Despite its prevalence in Nigeria,many cases remain unreported due to stigmatisation, victim-blaming, fear of retaliation, and threatsfrom perpetrators. Existing research has largely focused on the prevalence, causes, signs andsymptoms, and consequences of rape, with limited attention given to preventive interventions andthe professional roles of guidance counsellors. This qualitative study addresses this gap byreviewing secondary sources, including textbooks, journal articles, newspapers, and onlinematerials, analysed through content analysis and anchored on psychoanalytic theory. The studyexamines the meaning and types of rape, contributing factors, signs and symptoms, prevalence, andthe challenges guidance counsellors encounter in implementing rape prevention programmes. Thefindings highlight that factors such as patriarchal cultural norms, gender inequality, lack of sexualeducation, exposure to violence, peer influence, mental health challenges, and social myths aboutindecent dressing contribute to rape. The paper recommends that guidance counsellors shouldintensify public awareness about rape through campaigns, workshops, and seminars. Guidancecounsellors should also provide counselling services to victims and individuals at risk to help themcope with trauma and pursue justice. In addition, guidance counsellors should collaborate withparents, policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders to strengthen institutionalsupport and preventive mechanisms. By emphasising the preventive and rehabilitative roles ofguidance counsellors, this study contributes to strategies for reducing rape and supporting victimsin Nigerian society.