The study investigated the alleged community stimulus of kidnapping on depression in Chikun LGA of Kaduna State. Survey research design was adopted with accidental sampling technique. Two hundred and thirty- two (232) participated in the study both male and female. A standardized instrument was used to collect data which is Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PQH-9). The data were further analyzed using Chi-Square, One-Way ANOVA and Independent Sample-t-test. Hypothesis one revealed that, there is a significant difference in the perceived association of news on kidnapping and depression in Chikun LGA of Kaduna State, X2(1) = 37.274, P < 0.05. In other words, the hypothesis was confirmed in this study. Hypothesis two tested a significant difference in gender and depression in Chikun LGA. Analysis revealed a statistically significant difference between male and female participants in Chikun LGA of Kaduna State, t(230)= -5.110, P < 0.05. In other words, the stated hypothesis was confirmed in this study. We therefore, concluded and recommended that, even though residents are aware of such activities, the level of PTSD experienced by them has been relatively low but relatively high depression. Family and community ties and togetherness should be strengthened since it promotes resilience which in turn act as a buffer or immune to developing PTSD or depression.
Keywords: community stimulus, depression and posttraumatic stress disorder, kidnapping
