THE CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES OF PRE-MARITAL SEXUAL RELATIONSHIP AMONG ADOLESCENT IN ADO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, EKITI STATE

ABSTRACT This study examines causes and consequences of pre-marital sexual relationship among adolescent in Ado local Government, Ekiti state in Ekiti state. The population comprised of all secondary school students adolescents in Ado-Ekiti. One hundred and fifty (150) students was the sample used which were selected through simple random sampling technique. A self-designed instruments was used to collect data for the study. The instrument was subjected to face and content validity. Pearson product moment correlation coefficient was used to determine the reliability coefficient which yilded a coefficient of 0.71. The result revealed that absence of sex education leads to pre-marital sexual relationship, video and other shows via media assist adolescents in engaging in premarital sexual relationship, lack of awareness about the risks and consequences of engaging in pre-marital sexual relationships, desire for intimacy and emotional connection encourage premarital sexual relationship, friends' opinions about pre-marital sex strongly influence adolescents views about sexual relationship. Based on the findings, it was recommended that parents should ensure that they teach their adolescent children sex education. There should be public enlightenment on the dangers of premarital sex. The government, cooperate organizations and other concerned individuals should create opportunities for youth training on the implications of social vices, especially premarital sex. All educational institutions should engage the services of guidance counselorrs to counsel the youths on the adverse effects of premarital sex and the benefits of waiting for the rights time to involve in sexual activities.