THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY,

This study examined the Relationship Between Socia Media Usage and The Mental Health Outcome Amon Students of University of Benin Living in Ekosodin Community, Benin City. Five research questions were raised to guide this study; What are the predominant patterns of social media usage among University of Benin students in Ekosodin? What is the prevalence and nature of mental health outcomes in this community?. Is there a significant relationship between social media usage and mental health indicators? What factors mediate or moderate this relationship? How can interventions be designed to promote positive mental health in the context of social media use? The target population comprises all undergraduate students of the University of Benin residing in Ekosodin community. According to university records and community estimates, this population is approximately 5,000-7,000 students, drawn from various faculties including Arts, Sciences, Engineering, and Social Sciences. This size ensures statistical power for correlational analyses, consistent with similar studies (e.g., samples of 382-830 in Nigerian research). A multi-stage sampling technique is employed. First, stratified sampling divides the population by faculty (proportional allocation: e.g., 30% Social Sciences). Second, cluster sampling selects hostels or streets in Ekosodin as clusters. Third, simple random sampling chooses participants within clusters using a lottery method or random number generators. This technique ensures representativeness and reduces bias in a dispersed community like Ekosodin. Convenience elements are incorporated for hard-to-reach subgroups, balancing rigor with practicality. The following findings are: the study established a significant association between the intensity of social media use and negative mental health outcomes, particularly symptoms of anxiety, stress, and emotional exhaustion among students. Students who spent prolonged hours online reported poorer psychological well-being compared with moderate users. Evidence indicated that academic stress and peer influence function as mediating variables that amplify the psychological effects of social media exposure. Students experiencing high academic pressure were more vulnerable to depressive mood patterns linked to online comparison and information overload. Recommendations for the findings are as follows: University authorities should develop structured digital-wellbeing education programmes aimed at promoting responsible social media habits, time management, and awareness of psychological risks associated with excessive.

This cross-sectional study examined students' perceptions of contraceptive usage in Ekosodincommunity, University of Benin, Nigeria, involving 130 male and female undergraduates selected via simple random sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires andanalyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages). Findings revealed high contraceptive awareness (90%), with condoms (80%) and pills (60%) most recognized, but low knowledge of long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) like IUDs (30%) and implants(20%), due to reliance on informal sources (friends/peers and media, 30%each) and limited formal education (40% attended sessions). Positive perceptions of effectiveness were strong(80% agreed contraceptives prevent pregnancy), yet 30% associated use with sexual irresponsibility, influenced by cultural/moral beliefs. Half (50%) reported contraceptiveuse, primarily condoms (40%) and pills (20%). Key barriers included fear of side effects (50%), highcost (40%), stigma/embarrassment (50%), lack of confidentiality (50%), and religious/cultural beliefs (30%). Grounded in symbolic interactionism, the study highlights how social meanings shape behaviors. Recommendations include mandatory reproductive health education, youthfriendly confidential services, subsidized contraceptives, peer-led campaigns, and genderinclusive programs to address myths, improve access, and promote informed usage, therebyreducing unintended pregnancies and STIs

This study examined primary healthcare system and its impact on individuals lives in the various communities in Benin City. To achieve the objectives of this study, one hundred questionnaires was distributed by the researcher to community members and was successfully collected and used for data analysis and presentation. At the end of the analysis, the study revealed that majority of community members are aware of primary healthcare system but are not satisfied with the services they received as they received poor quality services. In line with these findings, it is recommended that both the government and non-governmental organizations should endeavor to provide good primary healthcare facilities, train and educate healthcare professionals and create more awareness or organize campaigns about the importance of primary healthcare center