The Impact of Social Media on Sexual Health Knowledge Among University Students in Kaduna State
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- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
In the digital age, social media has become a primary source of information for young people, influencing their knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors on various topics, including sexual health. University students, who are highly active on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, often rely on social media for information about sexual and reproductive health (Ajayi & Omolara, 2024). While social media provides opportunities for spreading awareness about safe sex practices, STI prevention, and contraception, it also exposes students to misinformation, cultural myths, and peer influence that can negatively impact their sexual health decisions (WHO, 2024).
Sexual health education is essential in reducing the prevalence of STIs, unintended pregnancies, and unsafe sexual practices. However, many students in Kaduna State have limited access to formal sex education due to cultural and religious constraints. As a result, they turn to social media for answers to their questions about sexual health, often encountering both credible sources and misleading content. While some studies highlight the positive role of social media in increasing sexual health awareness, concerns remain about the accuracy and reliability of the information being accessed (Adeyemi & Musa, 2023).
This study seeks to investigate the impact of social media on university students' knowledge of sexual health in Kaduna State. It will explore whether social media serves as a reliable educational tool or contributes to misinformation and risky behaviors.
Statement of the Problem
Many university students in Kaduna State lack comprehensive sexual health education due to cultural taboos and inadequate school-based programs. Consequently, they turn to social media platforms for information. While social media offers accessibility to a vast array of resources, the quality and accuracy of the information vary significantly. Misinformation about contraception, STIs, and reproductive health can lead to risky sexual behaviors, increasing vulnerability to infections and unintended pregnancies (UNFPA, 2023).
Despite the growing use of social media in Nigeria, limited research has been conducted on its influence on sexual health knowledge among university students in Kaduna State. It is unclear whether social media platforms are effectively educating students or contributing to the spread of myths and misconceptions. This study aims to bridge this gap by evaluating the impact of social media on sexual health knowledge and identifying ways to enhance the quality of health-related content available online.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the extent to which university students in Kaduna State use social media for sexual health information.
2. To determine the accuracy and reliability of sexual health content accessed through social media platforms.
3. To evaluate the impact of social media on students’ sexual health knowledge and decision-making.
Research Questions
1. How frequently do university students in Kaduna State use social media for sexual health information?
2. What is the level of accuracy of sexual health content available on social media platforms?
3. How does social media influence students' sexual health knowledge and decision-making?
Research Hypotheses
1. University students in Kaduna State rely significantly on social media for sexual health education.
2. A substantial portion of sexual health information on social media is inaccurate or misleading.
3. Social media has a positive influence on students' sexual health knowledge and decision-making when accurate information is accessed.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on university students in Kaduna State, examining their use of social media as a source of sexual health information. The study will analyze the credibility of information accessed and how it influences their knowledge and behavior. Limitations may include difficulties in verifying students’ self-reported use of social media and potential bias in selecting sources of information.
Definitions of Terms
• Social Media: Online platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok used for communication and information sharing.
• Sexual Health Knowledge: Awareness and understanding of reproductive health, STIs, contraception, and safe sex practices.
• Misinformation: False or misleading information that may influence individuals' decisions negatively.
• University Students: Individuals enrolled in tertiary institutions pursuing higher education.
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