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THE EFFECT OF PARENTAL MONITORING ON SEXUAL ABSTINENCE AMONG FEMALE STUDENT IN SECONDARY SCHOOL IN EDO STATE

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

The issue of sexual abstinence among adolescents, particularly female students, is a critical area of concern in educational and social spheres. In Edo State, Nigeria, the role of parental monitoring in influencing sexual behavior has gained significant attention. Parental monitoring refers to the practices and strategies employed by parents to oversee and guide their children's activities and behaviors (Fletcher et al., 2018). Research has consistently shown that effective parental monitoring can significantly impact adolescents' sexual behaviors, including their decisions regarding sexual abstinence (Boggess et al., 2020).

Sexual abstinence is a preventive strategy aimed at reducing the incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies among teenagers. The effectiveness of sexual abstinence programs is often linked to various factors, including parental influence. Studies suggest that parental monitoring plays a crucial role in shaping adolescents' attitudes and behaviors towards sexual activity (Nair et al., 2021). For instance, a study conducted by Darroch et al. (2019) highlighted that adolescents with higher levels of parental supervision were more likely to delay sexual initiation.

In Nigeria, where cultural and societal norms greatly influence adolescent behavior, parental monitoring can be particularly impactful. The Nigerian educational system places a significant emphasis on the moral and ethical development of students, and parental involvement is considered a key factor in this process (Oluwaseun et al., 2022). However, there is a noticeable gap in research concerning the specific effects of parental monitoring on sexual abstinence among female secondary school students in Edo State. This gap underscores the need for empirical investigation into how parental monitoring influences sexual abstinence in this context.

The complexity of adolescent development and the diverse influences on sexual behavior necessitate a comprehensive examination of parental monitoring strategies. Recent research underscores the importance of understanding how different aspects of parental involvement, such as communication, supervision, and involvement in educational activities, affect adolescents' sexual choices (Jones et al., 2023). For example, a study by Sobo et al. (2021) found that open communication between parents and adolescents about sexual health was associated with higher rates of sexual abstinence.

Moreover, cultural factors in Edo State, including traditional beliefs and practices, may also impact the effectiveness of parental monitoring. The interplay between cultural norms and parental practices can shape the extent to which parental monitoring influences sexual abstinence among female students (Akinyemi et al., 2022). This contextual factor highlights the importance of conducting localized research to better understand how these dynamics operate in specific settings.

In summary, the background of this study revolves around the critical role of parental monitoring in influencing sexual abstinence among female secondary school students in Edo State. Existing literature provides a foundation for understanding the relationship between parental monitoring and adolescent sexual behavior, yet there is a need for more localized and specific research to address the unique cultural and social dynamics of the region.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite the recognized importance of parental monitoring in influencing adolescent sexual behavior, there is limited empirical evidence on its specific effects on sexual abstinence among female students in secondary schools in Edo State. While general studies suggest that parental supervision positively impacts adolescent sexual behavior, the unique cultural and educational contexts of Edo State necessitate a more focused investigation. The lack of localized research leaves a gap in understanding how parental monitoring affects female students' choices regarding sexual abstinence in this region. This study seeks to address this gap by examining the influence of various aspects of parental monitoring on the sexual abstinence of female secondary school students in Edo State.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to determine the effect of parental monitoring on sexual abstinence among female students in secondary schools in Edo State. Specific objectives include:

i.  To evaluate the impact of parental supervision on the likelihood of sexual abstinence among female secondary school students.

ii.  To determine the relationship between parental communication about sexual health and the sexual behavior of female students.

iii.  To find out how cultural factors in Edo State influence the effectiveness of parental monitoring on sexual abstinence.

1.4 Research Questions

i. What is the impact of parental supervision on the likelihood of sexual abstinence among female secondary school students in Edo State?

ii. What is the relationship between parental communication about sexual health and the sexual behavior of female students in Edo State?

 iii. How do cultural factors in Edo State influence the effectiveness of parental monitoring on sexual abstinence among female students?

1.5 Research Hypotheses

Hypothesis I:

H0: There is no significant impact of parental supervision on the likelihood of sexual abstinence among female secondary school students in Edo State.

H1: There is a significant impact of parental supervision on the likelihood of sexual abstinence among female secondary school students in Edo State.

Hypothesis II:

H0: There is no significant relationship between parental communication about sexual health and the sexual behavior of female students in Edo State.

H2: There is a significant relationship between parental communication about sexual health and the sexual behavior of female students in Edo State.

Hypothesis III:

H0: There is no significant influence of cultural factors in Edo State on the effectiveness of parental monitoring on sexual abstinence among female students.

H3: There is a significant influence of cultural factors in Edo State on the effectiveness of parental monitoring on sexual abstinence among female students.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it provides insights into the role of parental monitoring in promoting sexual abstinence among female students in Edo State. By examining the impact of parental supervision and communication on adolescent sexual behavior, the study contributes to the development of targeted interventions and educational programs. Understanding the influence of cultural factors also enhances the effectiveness of parental strategies in the local context, thereby supporting healthier sexual behaviors among adolescents.

1.7 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on female students in secondary schools in Edo State, Nigeria. It examines various aspects of parental monitoring, including supervision, communication about sexual health, and the influence of cultural factors. The scope is limited to secondary schools within the state and does not extend to other regions or educational levels.

1.8 Limitations of the Study

The study may be limited by factors such as sample size, regional differences within Edo State, and the potential for self-reporting biases among participants. Additionally, the cultural specificity of the study may not be generalizable to other regions or countries.

1.9 Definition of Terms

Parental Monitoring: The practices and strategies used by parents to oversee and guide their children's behaviors and activities (Fletcher et al., 2018).

Sexual Abstinence: The practice of refraining from sexual activity, often promoted as a means of preventing sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies (Boggess et al., 2020).

Cultural Factors: The traditional beliefs, practices, and norms that influence behavior and attitudes within a specific cultural context (Akinyemi et al., 2022).

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