DEPARTMENT OF SOCIOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY

The rapid growth of social media use among young people has raised concerns about its potential impact on mental health. This study examined the effects of social media usage on the mental health of undergraduate students at the University of Benin, Edo State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study investigated the frequency and patterns of social media use, the relationship between social media engagement and mental health outcomes, students’ awareness of the psychological risks associated with excessive use, and strategies for promoting healthier digital engagement. The study was guided by Social Comparison Theory, which explains how individuals evaluate themselves through comparisons with others, particularly in digital environments. A survey research design was adopted. Data were collected from 490 undergraduate students drawn from different faculties of the University of Benin using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages were used to analyze patterns of social media usage and mental health experiences, while inferential statistical techniques including Pearson Product–Moment Correlation, independent-samples t-test, and one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used to test the hypotheses at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that social media usage is highly prevalent among undergraduate students, with platforms such as WhatsApp, TikTok, Instagram, and X being the most frequently used. Many students reported spending several hours daily on these platforms, often during evening and late-night hours. The results further indicated that frequent and prolonged social media use is significantly associated with higher levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms among students. The study also found that greater awareness of the psychological risks associated with excessive social media use is linked to better mental health outcomes. The study concludes that while social media provides important opportunities for communication and social interaction, excessive engagement may expose students to psychological challenges. It therefore recommends the promotion of digital mental health literacy programs, strengthened counseling services, and institutional strategies that encourage
balanced and responsible social media use among students

This study investigates the nature and types of crimes associated with female inmates at the Oko Correctional Centre in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. It examines the reasons behind women’s involvement in crime, the specific crimes committed, the socio-demographic factors influencing female criminality, and the policies needed to address the issue. The study adopts a descriptive survey design, utilizing both primary and secondary data sources. A total of ninety-two (92) respondents, comprising female inmates and social welfare officers, were sampled from a population of 1,033 using the Yamane (1967) formula. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis within the framework of the Feminist/Gender Pathway Theory. Findings reveal that financial difficulties (43.5%), family problems (21.7%), peer pressure (16.3%), and lack of education (10.9%) are major drivers of female criminality. Theft (38.0%), fraud (21.7%), assault (16.3%), and prostitution (16.3%) emerged as the most prevalent crimes, predominantly motivated by economic survival. The majority of respondents were young (21–30 years), single, poorly educated, and from low socio-economic backgrounds. The study also found that 43.5% of inmates had experienced abuse or trauma, underscoring the intersection between victimization and criminal behavior. Furthermore, 78.3% of respondents considered existing policies inadequate, emphasizing the need for gender-responsive reforms. The study concludes that female criminality in Nigeria is largely a product of socio-economic deprivation, gender-based inequalities, and limited rehabilitation opportunities. It recommends government-funded vocational and educational programs, trauma-informed care, and the development of gender- specific correctional policies aimed at reintegration and crime prevention