KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE OF NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS TOWARDS HOMOSEXUALITY AND ITS IMPLICATIONS ON SOCIAL ADJUSTMENT

This study investigated knowledge and attitude of Nnamdi Azikiwe University students towards homosexuality and its implications on social adjustment. It also examined level of awareness, attitude, factors and implications of homosexuality on social adjustment and how it can be eradicated. The social learning theory, theory of psycho sexual development and biological theory of homosexuality were reviewed. Thereafter, the social learning theory was adopted as the theoretical framework. The mixed methods research design and multistage sampling procedure were used. The study sampled 204 regular students aged 18 years and above. The quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency counts and simple percentages while the qualitative data were analyzed using the thematic method of data analysis. Three hypotheses were tested using chi-square (2) test statistics and results were found to have positive relationships. The findings showed that attitudes towards homosexuals in Nnamdi Azikiwe University include stigmatization, hatred, tolerant, aggressive and rejection. Factors influencing homosexuality among students include having gay and lesbian friends, genetic factors such as hormonal imbalance, poverty, negative childhood experiences such as sexual abuse. Implications of homosexuality among students include loss of concentration, poor academic performance, mockery, depression, injury/bruises in the private parts, police arrest and brutality. This study found that homosexuality affects social adjustment among students in the following areas: inability to adjust to a new environment, fear of social gatherings, lack of communication skills, poor emotional development, fear and anxiety. Based on these findings, creation of awareness on the consequences of homosexuality was recommended.