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Background: One-third (31.6%) of Nigerian total population of 197 million people are adolescents and young adults aged 10 to 24 years; positioning Nigeria with the highest population of adolescents globally. A high prevalence of sexual activity among adolescents in Cross River State has contributed to the highest birth rate (35%) in the South-South of Nigeria. Purpose: This study explored factors influencing initiation and continued sexual activity among adolescents in Odukpani, Cross River State. Methods: Using a qualitative case study design, purposive sampling technique was used in recruiting participants for Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Each FDG had 6-10 participants in attendance giving a total of 48 participants. The FGD audio tapes were transcribed verbatim into a word document. These and the field notes were scrutinized and compared for consistency. The document was coded, manually sorted and grouped to form code families and themes. Multiple cross-checking helped retain participants’ discussion content and context. Results: Access to pornography through mobile phones and satellite television as well as early involvement in romantic relationships in secondary schools were identified as factors leading to early sexual debut. Poverty, the love for fine clothes, shoes and big phones, were identified as factors leading to transactional sex by adolescents. Poverty and Living conditions exposed adolescents to their parents’ sexual activity while need for attention/information put some adolescents at risk of falling victims to adult sexual predators. Conclusion: Poverty alleviation programs could help reduce early sexual debut, sustained sexual activity and sex-related health risks amongst adolescents in Odukpani. Key words: Sexual behaviour, romantic relationships, pornography, poverty, risky sexual behaviour. |
