Contextual Determinants of Sexual Behaviour of Emerging Adults in Nigeria

Olufemi Adetutu , Obafemi Awolowo University
Azeez Abdulrahman

Several studies have examined the determinants of sexual behaviour of young adults in Nigeria. These studies found explanations in individual and household predictors. However, evidence from the developed countries established that the conceptualization of young people’s transition to adulthood should move beyond using age classification in explaining the period of transition to adulthood but a social construction couched in delay parenthood and marriage. A situation where expanding education and employment prospects create a window of opportunity for sexual experimentation, termed emerging adults aged 18-25 years. Meanwhile, there is little research on these in Nigeria. Hence this study tested models on age at first sex and incorporated individual-level alongside contextual characteristics using the 2013 Nigeria DHS. Results showed the median age at first sex is higher for male (19 years) compared with female (18years) and that individual and community variables influenced age at first sexual intercourse. Community-based interventions should be encouraged.

See paper

 Presented in Session 2. Children & Youth