International Journal of Management, Social Sciences, Peace and Conflict Studies (IJMSSPCS), Vol.7 No.4 December, 2024; p.g. 311 - 324; ISSN: 2682-6135 EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF COGNITIVE-BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (CBT) IN REDUCING RECIDIVISM… 311 EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF COGNITIVE-BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (CBT) IN REDUCING RECIDIVISM AMONG INMATES IN NIGERIAN PRISONS ABUNIKE, UCHENNA EVELYN Department of Sociology, Legacy University Okija. Anambra State, Nigeria abunike.ue@legacyuniversity.edu.ng Abstract Recidivism remains a significant challenge within the Nigerian prison system, often exacerbated by inadequate rehabilitation programs. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been widely recognized as an effective intervention for reducing criminal behavior by addressing cognitive distortions and maladaptive behaviors. This study evaluates the effectiveness of CBT in reducing recidivism among inmates in Nigerian prisons. Grounded in Rational Choice Theory, which posits that individuals make decisions based on perceived costs and benefits, this research explores how CBT reshapes cognitive processes to discourage reoffending. The study employs a quasi- experimental design, comparing recidivism rates between two groups of inmates: those who participated in a structured CBT program and a control group that did not receive CBT. Data will be collected through pre- and post-intervention assessments, structured interviews, and official prison records. The study aims to measure behavioral changes, decision-making improvements, and post-release reintegration success. Additionally, qualitative insights from inmates and prison officials will provide a comprehensive understanding of the program’s impact. Findings from this research will contribute to policy discussions on prison rehabilitation in Nigeria and highlight the potential of CBT as a viable tool for reducing recidivism. By identifying the strengths and limitations of current rehabilitation efforts, this study seeks to inform stakeholders—including correctional institutions, policymakers, and psychologists— on best practices for inmate reintegration. Ultimately, the research underscores the importance of evidence-based interventions in creating a more effective and rehabilitative prison system. Keywords: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Recidivism, Rational Choice Theory, Prisons, Rehabilitation. INTRODUCTION The high rate of recidivism among inmates in Nigerian prisons remains a significant concern for criminal justice practitioners, policymakers, and researchers. Recidivism, commonly defined as the tendency of previously incarcerated individuals to reoffend after release, poses a major challenge to the rehabilitation and reintegration efforts of correctional facilities. Studies indicate that Nigeria's correctional system struggles with overcrowding, poor rehabilitation programs, and inadequate post-incarceration support, all of which contribute to the high rate of reoffending (Okunola & Adebayo, 2023). Consequently, there is a growing need to evaluate evidence-based rehabilitation strategies such as Cognitive-Behavioral