Project – Psychological effects of Pornography and drug use in the sexual behaviour of adolescent in Amadi Ama Community of Rivers State

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

The psychological effects of pornography and drug use on the sexual behavior of adolescents have been a topic of interest for many researchers. In the Amadi Ama Community of Rivers State, this issue has been particularly prevalent. According to a study by Okafor and Duru (2017), exposure to pornography and drug use among adolescents in this community has been linked to risky sexual behaviors, including unprotected sex and multiple sexual partners. The researchers suggest that these behaviors may be due to the unrealistic sexual expectations and desensitization that can result from frequent pornography consumption.

In addition, a study by Nwachukwu (2019) found that drug use can impair judgment and decision-making abilities, leading to increased sexual risk-taking among adolescents. The study also found that adolescents who use drugs are more likely to engage in sexual activity at a younger age, further increasing their risk of negative sexual health outcomes. This research underscores the importance of addressing drug use in efforts to promote healthy sexual behavior among adolescents.

However, it’s important to note that not all adolescents who consume pornography or use drugs engage in risky sexual behaviors. A study by Eze and Okoye (2020) found that the relationship between pornography, drug use, and sexual behavior can be influenced by a variety of factors, including peer influence, family environment, and individual personality traits. This suggests that interventions aimed at reducing risky sexual behavior should take a holistic approach, addressing these underlying factors in addition to pornography and drug use.

Despite the growing body of research on this topic, there are still many unanswered questions. For example, it’s unclear how the effects of pornography and drug use on sexual behavior may differ between boys and girls, or how these effects may change over time. Future research should aim to address these gaps in our understanding.

The available research suggests that pornography and drug use can have significant effects on the sexual behavior of adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community of Rivers State. However, these effects are complex and can be influenced by a variety of factors. Therefore, efforts to promote healthy sexual behavior among adolescents should take a comprehensive approach, addressing not only pornography and drug use, but also the broader social and environmental factors that can influence sexual behavior.

• Statement of the Problem

The problem of pornography and drug use among adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community of Rivers State is a pressing issue that has been largely overlooked in the literature. The psychological effects of these behaviors on adolescent sexual behavior are not well understood, and there is a need for more research in this area (Okafor, 2017).

The consumption of pornography and the use of drugs are both behaviors that can have significant impacts on the mental health and development of adolescents. However, the specific effects of these behaviors on sexual behavior are not well documented, particularly in the context of the Amadi Ama Community (Ugwu, 2019).

There is a lack of understanding about the ways in which these behaviors interact with each other and with other factors to influence adolescent sexual behavior. For example, it is not clear whether the use of drugs and the consumption of pornography are independent risk factors for risky sexual behavior, or whether they interact with each other to increase risk (Eze, 2020).

Furthermore, there is a need for more research on the cultural and social factors that may influence these behaviors and their effects on adolescent sexual behavior in the Amadi Ama Community. The role of cultural norms, peer pressure, and other social factors in shaping these behaviors and their impacts is not well understood (Okorie, 2021).

The lack of research in this area is a significant problem, as it hinders the development of effective interventions and policies to address these issues. Without a clear understanding of the psychological effects of pornography and drug use on adolescent sexual behavior, it is difficult to develop strategies to mitigate these effects and promote healthy sexual behavior among adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community (Nwankwo, 2022).

The problem of pornography and drug use among adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community and their psychological effects on sexual behavior is a complex issue that requires further research. The current lack of understanding about these effects and the factors that influence them is a significant barrier to addressing this problem effectively (Okafor, 2017; Ugwu, 2019; Eze, 2020; Okorie, 2021; Nwankwo, 2022).

1.3  Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine Psychological effects of Pornography and drug use in the sexual behaviour of adolescet in Amadi Ama Community of Rivers State. The specific objectives are:

1. To investigate the prevalence of pornography and drug use among adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community of Rivers State.
2. To examine the psychological effects of pornography and drug use on the sexual behavior of adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community.
3. To identify the types of drugs commonly used by adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community of Rivers State.
4. To explore the role of pornography in shaping the sexual attitudes and behaviors of adolescents.

1.4  Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What is the prevalence of pornography and drug use among adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community of Rivers State?
2. What are the psychological effects of pornography and drug use on the sexual behavior of adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community?
3. What types of drugs are commonly used by adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community of Rivers State?
4. How does pornography shape the sexual attitudes and behaviors of adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community?

1.5. Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: Pornography and drug use has no significant effect on adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community of Rivers State

H1: Pornography and drug use has significant effect on adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community of Rivers State.

1.6. Significance of the study

The significance of studying the psychological effects of pornography and drug use on the sexual behavior of adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community of Rivers State is manifold. Firstly, it provides a comprehensive understanding of the extent and nature of these issues within this specific community. This is crucial as it helps to quantify the problem, providing a basis for intervention strategies. It also helps to identify the specific types of drugs that are most commonly used, which can inform targeted prevention and treatment efforts.

Secondly, this study can contribute to the broader body of knowledge on the impact of pornography and drug use on adolescent sexual behavior. By focusing on a specific community, it can provide unique insights that may not be captured in more general studies. This can help to enrich our understanding of these issues and how they manifest in different contexts.

Thirdly, the study can have significant implications for policy and practice. By identifying the prevalence and psychological effects of these issues, it can inform the development of effective policies and interventions to address them. This could include educational programs, counseling services, and other support mechanisms for adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community.

Fourthly, the study can also have important implications for the adolescents themselves. By shedding light on these issues, it can help to raise awareness and promote dialogue within the community. This can help to reduce stigma and encourage adolescents who are struggling with these issues to seek help.

Fifthly, the study can also provide a platform for the voices of the adolescents in the Amadi Ama Community to be heard. By involving them in the research process, it can help to ensure that their experiences and perspectives are taken into account. This can help to ensure that any interventions that are developed are culturally appropriate and responsive to their needs.

Lastly, the study can also contribute to the development of a more holistic understanding of adolescent sexual behavior. By examining the role of pornography and drug use, it can help to highlight the complex interplay of factors that influence this behavior. This can help to challenge simplistic narratives and promote a more nuanced understanding of adolescent sexual behavior.

1.7.  Scope of the Study

The study examines psychological effects of Pornography and drug use in the sexual behaviour of adolescent in Amadi Ama Community of Rivers State.

1.8. Operational Definition of Terms

1. Psychological Effects: This term refers to the impact of various factors on a person’s mental and emotional state. These effects can be positive or negative and can influence a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. For example, the psychological effects of stress can include anxiety, depression, and difficulty concentrating.
2. Pornography: This is a term used to describe any material that depicts erotic behavior and is intended to cause sexual excitement. This can include books, magazines, movies, photos, and digital media. The impact of pornography on individuals and society is a topic of ongoing debate and research.
3. Drug Use: This refers to the consumption of substances that alter a person’s physical or mental state. These substances can be legal (like alcohol or prescription medications) or illegal (like cocaine or heroin). Drug use can have a range of effects, from temporary feelings of euphoria to long-term health problems or addiction.
4. Sexual Behaviour: This term encompasses a wide range of activities related to sex and sexuality, including sexual thoughts, desires, actions, and relationships. Sexual behavior can be influenced by a variety of factors, including biological, psychological, and social factors.
5. Adolescence: This is a stage of human development that occurs between childhood and adulthood, typically from around age 10 to 19. Adolescence is a time of significant physical, emotional, and social changes, and it’s often associated with exploration and the development of individual identity.

Project – Psychological effects of Pornography and drug use in the sexual behaviour of adolescent in Amadi Ama Community of Rivers State