DEPARTMENT OF SOCIOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY

Bullying and aggression within educational institutions are complex social issues that can have profound effects on students' well-being and academic performance. To address this concern, this study investigates the incidence and prevalence of bullying and aggression among undergraduate students in University of Benin, Benin city, Edo state, Nigeria. A descriptive research design was employed, involving a diverse sample of 200 undergraduate students. Data was collected through structured questionnaires, allowing for a comprehensive examination of
demographic characteristics, bullying experiences, and perceptions of university responses. The findings indicates that 45% of respondents reported experiencing bullying or aggression during their academic journey. Furthermore, the study reveals diverse demographic characteristics among participants, including gender, age and academic level. Dissatisfaction with the university's response to reported incidents was notable among respondents. This study contributes valuable insights
into the complex issue of bullying and aggression within higher education settings. It underscores the need for tailored interventions, improved support systems, and policies that promote a safe and inclusive environment for all students. By addressing this issue, [University Name] can enhance the well-being and academic success of its students, fostering a conducive learning environment.

This study examined the determinants of cybercrimes among youths in Egor LGA of Edo State. The objectives of the study were to: investigate the relationship between unemployment rates and the incidence of cybercrime among youths in Egor LGA of Edo State, ascertain the effects of peer-influence on youth engagement in cybercrime in Egor LGA of Edo State, examine the role access to technology and the internet play in facilitating cybercrime among unemployed youths in Egor LGA of Edo State, and evaluate the role of penal institution in curbing the menace of youth unemployment and cybercrime in Egor LGA of Edo State. The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design, and the targeted population for the study were residents between the age of 15 to 35 in Egor LGA. The study employed a purposive sampling method in purposively targeting youths who are involved in cybercrime from among the total population of youths in Egor L.G.A, and a sample size of five hundred (500) youths within the age bracket of (15-35) were selected from Egor LGA. Hence, data for the study were analysed using descriptive statistics. The descriptive method described the demography of respondents using frequency and percentage, and the hypotheses of the study were tested with chi-square and correlation. The analysis was conducted using the Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS 30.0) software. However, findings from the study revealed that there is a significant relationship between unemployment and youths’ involvement in cybercrime in Egor LGA of Edo State, there is association between peer-influence and youth engagement in cybercrime in Egor LGA of Edo State, there is a correlation between technology and the internet on youth engagement in cybercrime in Egor LGA of Edo State, and the penal institution and relevant government institutions have a significant role to play in curbing the menace of cybercrime among youths in Nigeria. The study then recommended that it is important for the government to develop government and private sector initiatives aimed at creating job opportunities for youths. This could include internships, apprenticeships, and skills training in high-demand areas such as technology, agriculture, and craftsmanship; there is need for the government and other relevant authorities to provide resources for young entrepreneurs through grants, low-interest loans, and business development training, as encouraging innovation and self-employment can distract youths from engaging in cybercrime for quick financial gain; at the community level, there is need to launch campaigns to educate communities about the dangers of cybercrime and the importance of ethical behaviour online, as engaging local leaders can help reinforce these messages; it is important to foster partnerships between educational institutions and tech companies to create programs aimed at equipping youths with relevant technical skills, as these partnerships can lead to internships and job placements; and there is need to establish innovation hubs and tech incubators that provide resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities for young tech enthusiasts to develop their ideas in a supportive environment.

his study examined the dynamics of policing and crime control in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. With rising concerns about security and the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies, this research investigates the relationship between policing strategies and crime rates in the region. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach that includes qualitative interviews with law enforcement officials, community leaders, and residents, as well as quantitative crime data analysis, the study highlights the challenges faced by the Nigeria Police Force in Uromi. Key findings reveal issues such as inadequate policing resources, corruption, and community distrust, which collectively hinder effective crime control efforts. Moreso, the research explores community involvement in policing, emphasizing the necessity for collaborative approaches to enhance public safety. The study recommends strategic reforms, including improved resource allocation, community policing initiatives, and strengthened partnerships between law enforcement and citizens to foster trust and efficiency in crime prevention and control. However, this research
contributes to the understanding of local policing dynamics in Nigeria and offers insights for policymakers and law enforcement agencies aiming to bolster crime control mechanisms in Uromi and similar communities.

Promiscuity remains a widespread social issue with serious implications for young people, particularly undergraduates. This study examined the prevalence, causes, and effects of promiscuity among students of the University of Benin. To achieve this, four research objectives were formulated. A total of 160 semi-structured questionnaires were administered to students, alongside four in-depth interviews conducted among residents of Halls 1–4 within the university hostels. Findings revealed that promiscuity is prevalent among students and is largely driven by factors such as peer influence, financial constraints, exposure to social media, and weak parental or moral guidance. The study further established that promiscuous behavior negatively affects students’ academic performance, the core reason for their presence in school while also exposing them to life-threatening health risks, especially through unsafe sexual practices. Consequently, the research underscores the need for stronger institutional policies, effective moral and emotional guidance, financial support from parents, and regular sensitization programs such as symposia and workshops on the dangers of promiscuity. In conclusion, sexual promiscuity in the University of Benin poses more harm than benefit, and its implications call for urgent reflection. Beyond awareness, the findings provide a framework for broadening students’ knowledge of the issue while equipping them to make healthier lifestyle choices.

This study examines the influence of social media on the academic performance of students in the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City. It seeks to identify both the positive and negative effects of social media usage, determine the most commonly used platforms among students, and propose strategies for responsible and effective use. The research adopted a descriptive survey design, and data were collected from 100 respondents across six departments through the use of structured questionnaires. Findings revealed that social media plays a dual role in students’ academic lives. On the positive side, it enhances learning through easy access to study materials, improved communication, and better collaboration among students. However, excessive use for entertainment and social interaction often leads to distraction, poor
study habits, and reduced concentration. WhatsApp was identified as the most frequently used platform among the respondents. The study concludes that social media can either support or hinder students’ academic performance, depending on how it is utilised. It therefore recommends effective time management, self-discipline, and a more purposeful use of social media for academic advancement.

Unemployment is a universal phenomenon that has drawn the attention of nations as the unavailability of job opportunities poses also, as a leverage for attendant social unrest and menace. Using a semi-structured questionnaire as the instrument of data collection, this study describes unemployment amongst graduates as a societal problem in relation to its effects on the society. The results of the findings show that unemployment is often as a result of greed and corruption, which could lead members of the society into crime and reduce also, the value of education. In light of the findings, the study recommended that skills acquisition and entrepreneurship be encouraged and supported, proper utilization of resources and more leaning towards the industrial sector.

Over the years, there have been encouraging findings related to youth violent behaviour and bipolar disorder. The trend has been toward lower incidence of weapon-carrying and fighting in schools. This study titled “the prevalence of bipolar disorder and violent behaviour among University students in Nigeria. The study examine the relationship between personality trait and
violent behaviour among University students, relationship between mental health and violent behaviour among University students, relationship between peer group influence and violent behaviour among University students, relationship between biological factors and violent behaviour among University students. This study adopted a qualitative research method with survey instruments deployed to gather relevant data for analysis. The findings revealed that there are significant relationship between personality traits and violent behavior among university students, it was also revealed that revealed that there is a relationship between mental health and violent behavior among university students. Based on findings, it was recommended if you can
find out what the triggers are, you may be able to work out how to prevent the behaviour. Try to keep a calm environment by cutting down the stimulation, which could be in the environment, or in the activity that the person is doing. ‘Environment’ could mean the TV, radio, other noisy residents or an unfamiliar place, it was also recommended that Perhaps the person has become
frustrated at a task he cannot do or does not want to do. Remember that people with dementia often have severe reactions to feelings of failure. When you show or tell the person what to do, explain what to do step by step, with plenty of time in-between for the person to carry it out. Do not give too many choices, as this will be confusing

This research delves into the relationship between power supply and the social behavior of undergraduates in Ekosodin Community, Edo State, Benin City, employing a qualitative approach through interviews. This study seeks to uncover nuanced insights into how the in
availability and unreliability of electricity shape the social interactions, routines, and well- being of undergraduate students within the community. By engaging directly with the lived experiences and perspectives of students, the research aims to elucidate the diverse ways in which power supply influences their social behaviors, academic activities, and overall quality of life. Through thematic analysis of interview data, this study intends to contribute to a deeper understanding of the intersection between infrastructure and social dynamics, offering valuable implications for policymakers, utility providers, and community stakeholders seeking to improve the living conditions and social environments of Ekosodin Community

This study examined the undesirable effects of Prison Conditions and Inmates in Benin Medium Security Prison Edo State. Thus, this study investigated how the prison culture negative effects and influence the lives of the in mates while in prison. The participant in this
study were 200 of both inmates and staff selected through the use of stratified sampling technique. Survey design through structure questionnaire and structured and unstructured
interview were used to extract relevant data for the study. The hypotheses of the study were
tested using chi square(x2) statistical tool. The study discovered that there are negative effects
of adverse prison conditions on inmates in Benin Prison, the prison culture enhanced the learning of criminal behaviour and that prison have negative influence on in mates’ rehabilitation process, exchange of values by inmates result to recidivism. The study concluded that, the prison environment has negatively affected inmates and had proved dysfunctional for failing to reform inmates, serving as crime school and have encouraged recidivism among ex-offenders. The study recommended as follows: provisions of more skills acquisition facilities for inmates’ rehabilitations, the culture and lifestyles of inmates should be monitored by prison authority to engage in good conducts, discharge inmate should be well guided to avoid recidivism, and religion teachers should teach the inmates on moral ethics at all time to curb the rate of crime learning, among others.

Crime appears to be a permanent feature of modern society (Shehu, 2014). Despite efforts of criminologist, law enforcement agency, personal and criminal justice professionals to minimise it, the world is becoming a more terrible place. Where crimes such as terrorism, kidnapping, robbery, assault, sex offences, child molestation, burglary, environmental crime, arson (crimes without a victim), economic crime, political crime and cybercrime are the order of the day (Igba, Chimezie, Aja, Nnamani, Ogodo, 2018). Crime appears to be a permanent feature of modern society. Despite efforts of social workers, law enforcement agency, personal and criminal justice professionals to minimise it, the world is becoming a more terrible place. Where crimes such as homicide, kidnapping, robbery, assault, sex offences, child molestation, burglary, environmental crime, arson are crimes without a victim, economic crime, political crime and cybercrime are the order of the day