FACTORS INFLUENCING PRE-MARITAL SEX AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS IN THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out to identify the factors influencing pre-marital sex among undergraduate students in the University of Benin. The research was carried out as a survey research using relevant literature from journals, magazines, books and the internet. Four research questions were raised and analyzed for the purpose of the study. A random sampling technique was used in selection of two hundred and fifty (250) undergraduate students from 100 level to 600 level which was randomly selected from faculty of Law, Education, Life science, Management Science, and Physical science. The data were collected with questionnaire instrument and analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The result revealed that; Cohabitation is a trend that promotes sexual activities among university of Benin students and the hostel accommodation in the halls of residence encourages pre-marital sex, especially Hall 3. Factors influencing pre-marital sex among University of Benin students are peer pressure, social media, curiosity, Viewing of pornographic films/videos and financial gains. Social consequences of pre-marital sexual practice among University of Benin students are unintended dropout and termination of schooling and career pursuits, pregnancy and possible abortion, it also results in emotional and psychological trauma and breakdown.