AN ASSESSMENT OF THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON SEXUAL BEHAVIOUR OF MASS COMMUNICATION STUDENTS

ABSTRACT

Studies investigating the impact of social media on the sexual behaviour of mass communication students at the University of Benin, Benin City, are generally few. Hence, 200 undergraduate students from the department at the university are the subjects of this study, which examines the influence of social media on sexual behaviour. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data for this study, which used a survey research design as its technique 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 racy messages, watch pornographic video, and engage in risky sexual behaviour like masturbation as a result of social networking. The spread of obscene clothing, sex assault, promiscuous sex, hook-up, cybersex, pornography, and erotic solicitation were all effects of inappropriate social media usage. The study also covered cyberbullying, sexual deviancy, exposure to ritualists, and death as additional effects of social media abuse. It was suggested that a forum 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 limit their time on social media to prevent becoming fixated on these platforms.