CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES OF PRE-MARITAL SEXUAL ACTIVITY AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN UDI LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, ANAMBRA STATE

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to investigate the factors contributing to and the potential outcomes associated with pre-marital sexual activity among secondary school students in the Udi local government region. The present study focused on investigating the determinants contributing to the engagement of secondary school students in premarital sexual activities. The study additionally assessed the impact of premarital sexual activity among students in secondary education. Finally, the study proposes potential methods to address the issue of premarital sexual activity among secondary school students. The research adopted a survey-based descriptive research design. A total of 30 survey replies were verified for validity. Based on the collected and analysed replies, the findings indicate that pressure, economic factors, parental influence, and the pursuit of academic advantage are among the factors contributing to pre-marital sexual activity among secondary school students. Additionally, premarital sexual activity among secondary school students has been associated with several negative consequences, including unintended pregnancies, increased likelihood of dropping out of school, vulnerability to ritualistic practises, and diminished academic performance. In conclusion, one approach to addressing premarital sexual activity among secondary school students involves maintaining regular communication between counsellors and youths to provide ongoing education on sexuality. Additionally, parents can contribute by supplying the appropriate resources to discourage premarital sex. Furthermore, health educators should collaborate with curriculum designers in the secondary school system to integrate discussions on the consequences of premarital sex. Lastly,  The study thus suggests that parents should make an effort to furnish their children with the requisite resources, with the aim of discouraging premarital sexual activity among teenagers who are currently enrolled in educational institutions. It is imperative for parents to ensure the provision of valuable information on sexuality within the home environment, with the aim of safeguarding teenagers from the potential influence of detrimental information originating from peers and media sources.