Sociotherapy and Healing Trauma-Related Mental Disorders. A Case of Nyamagabe District

Abstract: This study examined sociotherapy's impact on trauma-related mental health recovery in Nyamagabe District, Rwanda, focusing on trust-building, active listening, and conflict resolution. The mixed-methods study included 176 participants, 156 of whom engaged in sociotherapy, with 20 serving as community dialogue facilitators (CDFs). Quantitative data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed to assess correlations between intervention components and recovery outcomes. Qualitative data from CDFs underwent thematic analysis to reveal deeper insights. Findings showed significant mental health improvements, with 57.1% of participants reporting strong positive effects and 30.8% experiencing extreme benefits. Statistical analysis highlighted trust-building as the most impactful component (F-value = 14.234, p < 0.001), followed by active listening and conflict resolution. CDF insights underscored empathy’s role in creating a safe space for trauma disclosure and how collaborative conflict resolution fostered community cohesion. Overall, sociotherapy was confirmed as effective in supporting trauma recovery and community healing, particularly by fostering reconciliation between survivors and perpetrators. Recommendations for future interventions include strengthening trust-building activities and refining conflict resolution methods. Future research should explore sociotherapy’s long-term effects and cultural relevance, advocating for community-based mental health strategies. Keywords: Sociotherapy, Trauma, Mental disorder, Active listening, conflict resolution skills, trust building skills. Title: Sociotherapy and Healing Trauma-Related Mental Disorders. A Case of Nyamagabe District Author: Marcel BISANGABAGABO, Dr. Nadia IRADUKUNDA International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online) Vol. 12, Issue 4, October 2024 - December 2024 Page No: 174-186 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 02-November-2024 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14028204 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/sociotherapy-and-healing-trauma-related-mental-disorders-a-case-of-nyamagabe-district