Influence of Internet Use on Early Sexual Initiation among Adolescents and Young People in Parakou

Jean claude Owolabi, ADHD ONG

Abstract Context and Methodology: This study examines the influence of Internet use on early sexual initiation (ESI) among adolescents and young people in the city of Parakou. It uses data from a survey conducted in 2022 by the National School of Statistics, Planning and Demography on information and communication technologies (ICT) and the dynamics of sexual and social behavior in the city of Parakou. Results: When the age at which an individual has access to the Internet increases by one unit, the probability of early sexual intercourse decreases by 9%. Education level, religion, gender and marital status were also associated with ESI. Conclusion: The study shows that the chances of ESI are high among targets who discover the Internet at an early age, and that interventions to promote the appropriate use of the Internet are needed. Key words: ESI; Internet; Adolescents; youth;

Keywords: Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights

See extended abstract.