Traumatized Individuals and their Psychosocial Needs in Maiduguri Rehabilitation Centre.

Abstract:

This research is aimed at designing a Rehabilitation centre in Maiduguri with a view to addressing the psychosocial needs of traumatized individuals in Maiduguri that will be a safe space that prioritizes safety and security to reduce anxiety and fear to the individuals. The design incorporates spaces for social interaction that encourage community ties and a sense of control. Privacy is also considered to help in restoring a sense of dignity to the traumatized individuals, access to nature, and cultural sensitivity, which are immensely considered. A qualitative research methodology was used for the study to allow for research triangulation and a wide range of data collection. The instruments used for data collection for the studies include case study, visual surveys, interview and focus group discussions at the respective case studied. Content analysis method was used to analyse data collected. Two management staff at Bullunkutu rehabilitation centre were altogether interviewed and a total of ten traumatized Individuals in the rehabilitation centre were also interviewed. The research found that psychosocial needs of the traumatized Individuals in Maiduguri rehabilitation centre where in poor condition for most of their needs. The environment prioritized their safety and security. the environment is more of a small community and less organise due to presence of different types of traumatized individuals that undergoes a wild traumatic experience. Rehabilitation centre for traumatized Individuals in addressing the psychosocial needs should use more of natural features such as use of indigenous materials of adaptation of cultural sensitivity, Based on the findings and conclusions, it is recommended that the design should Integrate therapeutic architectural principles, biophilic elements, create safe, gender-sensitive, and private therapy spaces, communal spaces for interaction, recreation, culturally sensitive materials and spatial layouts reflecting local identity, sustainability through passive cooling, daylighting, and energy-efficient design. This study contributes to architectural knowledge by establishing a theoretical link between emotional wellbeing, social functionality, and architectural design. It provides an evidence-based framework for designing rehabilitation spaces that respond to psychosocial needs and introduces therapeutic and biophilic design integration as essential tools for architectural intervention in post-conflict reconstruction.