Peer Pressure as a Determinant for Young People's Sexual Behaviour in the University of Buea

This study investigated peer pressure as a determinant for young people’s sexual behaviour in the University of Buea. The study adopted the mixed method design whereby data was collected using a questionnaire. The sample constituted 90 second year students from the Department of Educational Psychology. Data were analysed descriptively by calculating frequencies and percentages and inferential statistics was computed using the Pearson product moment correlation. The findings revealed a strong relationship between drinking and clubbing and young people sexual behaviour (R= 0.561, p = 0.05). Equally there is a strong relationship between intimate relationships and young people sexual behaviour (R = 0.498, P = 0.05). Similarly there exists a strong relationship between sexual language and young people’s sexual behaviour (R=0.702, P= 0.05). The study showed that young people in the University of Buea sexual behaviours are greatly influenced by their peers through drinking and clubbing; intimate relationships and use of sexual language. Since young people depend on peer support in the University environment they tend to engage in the activities and behaviours which peers practice. It is therefore important for parents and psychologists to counsel and oriented peers on appropriate behaviours before they enrol in the university and even when they are in the university parents and guidance should regularly talk with them and advise them on healthy sexual behaviours.