How to Reduce the Prevalence of Cultism in Secondary Schools

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The Role of Society in Reducing Cultism among Secondary School Students

Definition of Cultism

A cult is a secret social group whose rituals and practices are unusual.

Historically, cult groups were formed to defend shared interests. However, their activities are now accompanied by extreme violence.

Brief Origin of Cultism

Several publications have stated that Cultism in Nigeria started at the University College, Ibadan in 1953 when Wole Soyinka (now a professor) and six others formed the Pyrates Confraternity.

Cults are dominated by boys. But in recent years, girls now form their groups.

Why do young people join cults?

The following have been identified as the direct causes of why a teenager may become a cultist;

• Low self-esteem; he feels inadequate. With his looks, IQ, or status. He thinks becoming a cultist would boost his ego.

• Bullying; he may have been a victim of oppression from classmates. And is seeking protection before standing up to them.

• Need for affection; he may want to feel a sense of belonging. Making the brotherhood a cult presents look appealing.

• Unstable family; he may come from a family rocked with violence e.g physical abuse. And desires to fight back.

• Absence of parental guidance; being vulnerable, he might see no wrong in joining a cult. It's just another association of boys.

• Peer pressure; if several of his classmates belong to one cult group, he may feel pressured to join. If taunted by his friends, may finally give in.

What is the Impact of Cultism on the Society?

• Increased rate of crime

• Prevalent insecurity in communities where present

• Increased sale and consumption of illegal drugs

• Increased chances of cult expansion in tertiary institutions

What can society do to reduce cultism in secondary schools?

The society here refers to parents, community members, and academic and governmental institutions.

The following are some major roles we can play;

1. Good Model Representation

Children imitate their models. And Parents are the first models they have. 

A violent father will likely breed a violent son. Increasing the likelihood of joining a cult.  

Hence, parents need to live exemplary lives. 

Also, If society idolizes celebrities who display inappropriate behaviors in public. It tells young people that it is ok.

Likewise, when public figures with proper conduct are praised, children see an alternative example to follow.

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2. Effective Psychosocial and Counseling Services

Access to guidance and counseling services is important to schoolchildren. It serves as an avenue to confide in trusted adults.

Children can talk about their struggles without fear. For instance, loneliness. Then, receive appropriate help. This reduces their chances of becoming cultists.

Ministries of Education should pay attention to counseling departments in schools. They should employ experienced Child Counsellors and monitor the discharge of their duties.

3. Effective teaching methods

It appears that teacher training has been under-emphasized in the country. 

Poor teaching styles, name-calling and absenteeism are common occurrences. Especially in government schools.

Teachers are the building blocks of society. So, they have to conduct themselves professionally.

Due to the important role, they play in shaping children, investment in teacher training is necessary. This involves training on effective teaching methods. 

When children can enjoy learning, the chances of engaging in mischief during school hours are reduced.

4. Reward and Punishment Systems

The theory of Operant Conditioning states that children will only learn when rewards or consequences always follow certain behaviours.

Schools should develop systems for rewarding good actions to reinforce repetition. For instance, neatness. And punishments for unruly behaviors to deter potential offenders. For example, lateness.

A higher punishment must be given for serious offenses like joining a school cult. An expulsion seems appropriate for this.

5. Adequate Learning Facilities

A standard school environment would make learning attractive. The government should provide a conducive learning atmosphere.

That includes providing sanitary facilities. Standard classroom and laboratory equipment.

Playground facilities for extracurricular activities. Organized intra/inter-school competitions.

These are great distractions from the harmful rituals cultism presents. They make children excited and hopeful for the future.

6. Parent-child Bonding

One reason students join cults is failed parenting. Often expressed as violence in the home or neglect.

Now, the need for affection is greatest in children's formative years.

So, it's easier for an abandoned child to turn into a serial killer, than it is for a boy brought up with the love and support of parents.

Parental presence does not translate to bringing up a responsible child.

Intentional parenting does. That means a 100 percent involvement in every aspect of a child's life.

Schools, religious and governmental institutions can organize extracurricular activities that promote parent-child bonding.

In conclusion, there are existing structures set up by academic and governmental institutions to play these roles.

Sadly, this has dwindled over the years. The emphasis here is the rejuvenation of these systems.

This article aims to strengthen society's resolve in improving children's welfare. That includes raising awareness of issues that threaten safe learning environments. And tackling them with our collective efforts.

Thus, improving the quality of life of Nigerian children.