AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE CAUSES OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT AMONG TERTIARY INSTITUTION STUDENTS IN UNIVERSITY OF BENIN

ABSTRACT

This study examined the causes of sexual harassment among tertiary institution students. The population of the study was made up of students in University of Benin, Benin City. A random sample of 150 students were randomly selected from the institution. A research instrument tagged “An investigation on the causes of sexual harassment among tertiary institution students ” was used to elicit information from the respondents. Data collected were analyzed using frequency counts and simple percentage. The result showed that sexual harassment has impacted negatively on the academic performance. Findings revealed that 70(46.7%) of the respondents strongly agreed that sexual harassment has caused psychological stress in students. It also revealed that 80(53.3%) of the respondents strongly agree that students seek support from trusted friends, families and professionals such as counselors or therapist. Findings also revealed that 78(52%) of the respondents strongly agree that organization structure where men in power threatens their victims are risk factors that lead to sexual misconduct in tertiary institutions. Findings also revealed that 85(56.7%) of the respondents strongly agree that lecturers fail students on purpose as a result of the student refusal to satisfy his sexual urge. Findings also revealed that 65(43.3%) of the respondents strongly agree that Gender inequality are one of the prevailing societal norms attitude and cultural norms that contribute to the occurrence of sexual harassment. It recommends that there should be Promotion of comprehensive education on consent,  Implementation of clear and enforceable policies that outline zero tolerance for sexual harassment. It also recommends that  Stakeholders should ensure accessible and confidential support services for survivors.