INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA NETWORKING AND SOCIAL COGNITION ON RISKY SEXUAL BEHAVIOUR AMONG YOUTHS IN ONITSHA METROPOLIS, ANAMBRA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study examined influence of social media and social cognition on risky sexual behaviour among youths in Onitsha Metropolis, Anambra State, Nigeria using 200 participants of 120 (75.0%) females, 80 (25%) males, mean age 25.36 years, and SD 7.03. Risky Sex Scale (RSS), Adolescent Social Cognition Questionnaire and Social Networking Usage Questionnaire were the instruments. Correlational design and Multiple Linear Regressions were employed. Findings showed social media usage and social cognition predicted the risky sexual behaviours of youths in Onitsha metropolis, Anambra State, Nigeria. It was recommended for behaviour moulders (like parents, guardians, priests, and significant others) to be functionally effective in moral and value development of the youth.