Predictive Factors Influencing the Sexual Behaviour of Some Nigerian Adolescents

Abstract

This study investigated predictive factors that can influence the sexual behaviour of Nigerian adolescents. The research deviates from the conventional dichotomy and perception of determining sexual behaviour among adolescents as those who have had sexual intercourse or not. The research assumption is based on the fact that specific attitudes can predict or explain elicited behaviour. Four predictors of non-cognitive assessment of sexual behaviours were highlighted. A survey using 599 male and female in-school adolescents (290 males and 309 females) whose mean age was 17.3 years, established the significance of the predictive factors that can influence sexual behaviour of subjects. Multiple regression analysis showed that the four independent constructs perceived by the researcher adequately predict adolescent sexual behaviour (R2 = .99098, f = 16311.03). Implications for adolescent sex counselling are highlighted.


IFE Psychologia Vol.12(2) 2004: 17-26