AN ASSESSMENT OF THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON SEXUAL BEHAVIOUR OF MASS COMMUNICATION STUDENT AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN, BENIN CITY

ABSTRACT

This study examines the effect of social media on the sexual behaviour of Mass communication students at the University of Benin, Benin City. Hence, 200 undergraduate students from the department of Mass communication at the university are the subjects of this study. An organized questionnaire was used to gather data for this study, and the survey research design was used as approach of investigation. The results showed that social media platforms had a significant impact on young people’s sexual behaviour among Mass communication students at the University of Benin in Benin City. Students are more likely to send naughty messages, watch pornographic video, and engage in risky sexual behaviour like masturbation as a result of social networking. The spread of indecent clothing, sex assault, promiscuous sex, hook-up, cybersex, pornography, and erotic solicitation were all effects of unsuitable social media usage. The study also covered cyber bullying, sexual deviancy, vulnerability to ritualists, and death as additional effects of social media abuse. The researcher recommends that a forum should be established for students to learn more about the impact of social media on his\her lives, which could help shape their views on sexuality and other issues. It was also advised that students should reduce their time on social media to prevent becoming preoccupied with these platforms.