UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT PROMISCUOUS BEHAVIOUR WITHIN THE HALL OF RESIDENCE

This study examines the phenomenon of promiscuity among undergraduate students residing in the halls of residence at the University of Benin, Nigeria. Adolescence is a critical developmental period marked by identity exploration and sexual awakening, which, when combined with newfound independence at university, can lead to risky sexual behaviors. The research is situated within a Nigerian socio-cultural context characterized by a double standard that often stigmatizes female sexual expression while tacitly condoning male promiscuity. The study adopts a qualitative approach to investigate the cause manifestations, and consequences of student promiscuity. Guided by Social Learning Theory, it explores how behaviors are learned through imitation and reinforcement from peers, family, and the media. The research addresses key questions regarding the root causes of promiscuity, the sexual attitudes of students, the frequency of sexual activity within the university environment, and its subsequent impacts Preliminary findings from the literature review indicate that promiscuity is driven by a complex interplay of factors, including freedom from parental control, pervasive peer influence, economic hardship leading to transactional sex, alcohol consumption, and exposure to permissive media content. The consequences are identified as multifaceted, encompassing heightened risks of sexually transmitted infections (including HIV/AIDS), unplanned pregnancies, emotional and psychological distress, and significant disruptions to academic performance and future prospects.This research contributes to the existing x literature by focusing specifically on the under-explored context of university halls of residence as epicenters of sexual experimentation. It concludes that addressing student promiscuity requires a holistic intervention strategy involving strengthened university policies, comprehensive sexuality education, proactive parental guidance, and broader societal reorientation to challenge harmful gender norms and mitigate the associated risks to student health and academic achievement.