THE INFLUENCE OF PEER GROUP ON ABORTION IN- ILORIN WEST.
Abstract
*ABSTRACT*
This study investigated the influence of peer group on abortion among youths in Ilorin West Local Government Area, Kwara State, Nigeria. The study became necessary due to the rising cases of unsafe abortion and its associated health complications among adolescents and young people, with peer influence identified as a major social determinant of sexual behavior. The study was anchored on the Social Learning Theory and the Theory of Reasoned Action.
A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population comprised youths aged 15–24 years in Ilorin West LGA. A sample of 250 respondents was selected using multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire titled "Peer Group Influence and Abortion Questionnaire (PGIAQ)" with a reliability coefficient of 0.81. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics of frequency, percentage, mean and inferential statistics of Chi-square at 0.05 level of significance.
Findings revealed that peer group significantly influences youths’ decisions on abortion in Ilorin West. Most respondents agreed that friends encourage abortion to avoid shame, provide information on where to procure abortion, and sometimes contribute money for the procedure. Peer pressure, fear of social rejection, and desire to conform to group norms were major factors pushing youths toward abortion. The study also found a significant relationship between peer group influence and incidence of abortion among youths (χ² = 18.24, p < 0.05).
The study concluded that peer groups play a critical role in shaping attitudes and decisions of youths toward abortion in Ilorin West. It was recommended that parents, schools, and health agencies should design peer education programs that train positive peer influencers to promote reproductive health and abortion prevention. Youth-friendly centers should also provide confidential counseling to counter negative peer pressure.
*Word Count: 268*
*Keywords: Peer group, Abortion, Youths, Peer pressure, Ilorin West, Reproductive health*
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