N. C. M. Achikasim
Abstract
This paper investigated the manifestation of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and its influence on the academic performance of secondary schools students in Benue State in the North Central zone of Nigeria. The population of the study consisted of 446 students from secondary schools in Benue State; while the sample size was 223 respondents, representing 50% of the population, drawn using proportionate sampling technique. Data collection was done using structured and validated questionnaire titled “Assessment of the Manifestation of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Secondary Schools (AMPTSDSS)”. Five research questions were answered in the study. The reliability of the instrument was established using Cronbach Apha formula and a reliability index of 0.89 was obtained. Data was analysed with descriptive statistics of frequency and percentage. Finding from the result indicates that PTSD exists in Benue State among secondary school students and it manifests as depression, emotional numbness, apprehension, absentmindedness, fear, nightmare and aggression amongst others. The study therefore recommended that the government and other stakeholders should strive to identify these students for early management.