HEALTH AND PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPLICATIONS OF TRADITIONAL RITES AND RITUAL PRACTICES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Traditional rites and practices are replete in most African communities. Rituals during rites ofpassage, circumcision, widowhood, initiation etc are now perceived inimical and repugnant tohealth. Although these rites and practices were initiated to enhance quality of life, thepracticability and benefits of majority of these rituals have become obsolete and inimical tohealth and psyche in recent times. Although various researches have documented the processesand benefits of these traditional ritual practices, few have examined its health andpsychological implications on individuals. Thus, this research examined the health andpsychological implications of traditional rites and practices in Nigeria with special focus insome selected communities in Delta State. Explanation of core variables hinged onfunctionalist and social change theory. A total of 400 respondents were co-opted in the study.Respondents’ eligibility and inclusiveness revolved around age and residency. Data wasgathered using questionnaire and in-depth interview. Data was analyzed using simplepercentage and chi-square. Data revealed that the rich cultural ritual practices were initiated toenhance longevity and as well maintain peaceful co-existence, but its relevance have becomerepugnant and inimical to health in modern time. The long-time effects cause psychologicalproblems for victims. Thus, the study recommends that indigenous practices whose rites andrituals pose as threat to health be eradicated.