Challenge:
Juvenile boy offenders aged 11 to 19, face significant challenges that impede their personal development and well-being. These challenges include low self-esteem, poor literacy levels, severe corporal punishment, and a lack of proper sex education. Additionally, the boys struggle with anger management, body image issues, and misconceptions about sexual behavior and relationships. Without proper guidance and education, these issues can lead to harmful behaviors and further entrench the cycle of violence and misinformation.
Our Intervention: The MYBIM Summer Program
To address these challenges, we implemented the MYBIM (My Body Is Mine) Summer Program, targeting two groups of boys: juniors (ages 11-14) and seniors (ages 15-19). The program was designed to educate the boys on critical topics such as body image, self-esteem, puberty, anger management, consent, and healthy relationships. It aimed to equip participants with essential knowledge and skills to make informed decisions regarding their physical and emotional well-being. The program was structured over three days for each group, with each day focusing on different themes.
Program Overview
Participants
Junior Class: Boys aged 11 to 14 from the Special Correctional Center for Boys in Oregun, Ikeja.
Senior Class: Boys aged 15 to 19 from the same correctional center.
Teaching Methods
The program utilized various teaching methods, including:
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Discussion: Facilitators engaged participants in open conversations about sensitive topics.
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Education: Information was presented through handouts, posters, and interactive sessions.
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Case Studies: Real-life scenarios were used to explore different aspects of sexual health and relationships.
Junior Class Report
Day 1: Body Worries and Self-Esteem
Key Activities
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Introduction to body structures and physiological changes during adolescence.
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Discussion of common body worries, including stunted growth, self-image issues, and physical strength.
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Exploration of self-love, acceptance, and building self-esteem.
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Participants wrote down their body concerns and desired outcomes.
Findings
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Most boys struggled with literacy, hindering class activities.
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Some experienced severe corporal punishments and complained about food quality.
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A boy named Adeleke was anorexic and had chronic ulcers.
Recommendations
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Simplify language for better understanding.
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Consider literacy projects to improve outcomes.
Day 2: Puberty and Anger
Key Activities
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Discussion on puberty, including questions about growth, wet dreams, and feelings for girls.
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Addressing anger issues and coping mechanisms.
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Linking anger to violence, especially against girls.
Findings
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Boys expressed serious anger problems.
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Lack of access to a counselor.
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Suggestion to use edutainment (videos) for teaching consent and violence.
Senior Class Report
Day 1: Teenage Sexual Behavior
Key Activities
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Discussion of myths and facts related to sexual behaviour.
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Exploration of masturbation, wet dreams, and self-esteem.
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Students created informative posters.
Findings
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Boys are eager to learn about sexual topics.
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Misinformation about lubrication and condoms.
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Some had experience with sex workers.
Day 2: STIs and HIV
Key Activities
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Poster presentations on myths and facts.
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Reading letters related to STIs.
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Practical condom use demonstration.
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Discussion on HIV prevention.
Findings
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Boys are enthusiastic about learning.
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Challenges purchasing condoms due to stigma.
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Positive response to hands-on condom training.
Day 3: Sexual Assault and Non-Consensual Relationships
Key Activities
- Consent education and discussion on rape.
- Awareness of STIs, hormones, and orgasms.
- Graduation as “My BIM sexuality educator peer mentors.”
Findings
- Boys shared experiences with sexual abuse and harassment.
- There is an urgent need for safety precautions and sensitivity in discussions.
Impact
The MYBIM Summer Program profoundly impacted the boys at the Oregun Correctional Center. It provided them with a safe space to discuss taboo topics and receive accurate information about their bodies and sexual behavior. The program helped to debunk myths, reduce misconceptions, and foster a better understanding of consent and healthy relationships. The program also improved their self-esteem and interpersonal skills by addressing their body image concerns and teaching anger management techniques.
Key Activities
- Increased awareness and understanding of body changes, sexual behavior, and STIs.
- Improved self-esteem and body confidence among participants.
- Enhanced anger management skills and reduced instances of violent behavior.
- Better comprehension of consent and respect in relationships.
- Identification and addressing of sexual harassment and abuse within the facility.
Recommendations for Future Interventions
- Implement a literacy improvement project to enhance reading and writing skills.
- Provide ongoing counseling and support for dealing with trauma and harassment.
- Use edutainment tools, such as videos, to reinforce lessons on consent and violence.
- Ensure regular training for staff to handle sensitive issues with care and professionalism.
The MYBIM Summer Program has laid the foundation for ongoing education and support for the boys at the Oregun Correctional Center, helping them to develop into informed, respectful, and confident individuals.
