This study investigated the prevalence of sexual harassment among University Undergraduates of Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria. Three research questions were raised and one null hypothesis was formulated to guide the study. The research design was a descriptive survey. A population of 92 undergraduates was used for the study. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire titled “Prevalence of Sexual Harassment among University Undergraduate".
The mean ratings and standard deviations were employed to answer the research questions and t-test was used to test the hypothesis. The major findings of the study was that there was no significance difference between female and male undergraduate likely to experience sexual harassment in Delta State University Abraka. It was recommended among other things that guidance counsellors, educational psychologists and significant others should establish more effective and workable strategies in tackling sexual harassment among university undergraduates.
Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Purpose of Study
1.2 Research Questions
1.3 Research Hypotheses
1.4 Methods
2. Presentation of Results
3. Research Hypotheses
4. Discussion of Findings
5. Conclusions
6. Recommendations
Research Objectives and Key Topics
This study aims to investigate and determine the prevalence of sexual harassment among undergraduate students at Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria, by evaluating student perceptions and experiences regarding various forms of unwelcome sexual conduct.
- Definition and categorization of sexual harassment behaviors
- Prevalence of sexual harassment among university undergraduates
- Assessment of reporting behaviors and institutional mechanisms
- Comparative analysis of harassment experiences between male and female students
- Development of intervention strategies for educational counselors and administrators
Excerpt from the Book
INTRODUCTION
Sexual harassment is unwelcome or unwanted behaviour exhibited by human beings. Whether behaviour is deemed unwelcome ultimately depends on the interpretations made by the target of the behaviour (Gutek & Done, 2001). According to Paludi and Barickman (1991), sexual harassment is defined as bullying or coercion of a sexual nature and the unwelcome or inappropriate promise of rewards in exchange for sexual favours. Sexual harassment includes a range of actions from mild transgression to sexual abuse or assault. Sexual harassment means the sexual advances, requests for sexual favours and other verbal, non-verbal or physical conduct of sexual in nature by the person of opposite sex or same sex, whether intentional or not, and which is regarded as undesired or forced (Aditi, Sangeetha & Bine, 2016). National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB, 2012), noted that sexual harassment is irrespective of gender that means a person can be sexually harassed by another individual of different or even that of the same gender. But in all cases of harassment, female is found to be the victim and male is found to be the perpetrator while it is very well known that even the males get sexually harassed. But the reason for not being reported is worth investigating.
Sexual harassment occurs when females harass males, males harass females, males harass other males or females harass other females. However, Pryor and Fitz Gerald (2003), listed types of sexual of harassment, to include the following;
1. Gender Harassment —Sexist comments about women
2. Seductive Behaviour —Repeated and unwanted sexual invitations.
Chapter Summaries
INTRODUCTION: Provides a theoretical framework defining sexual harassment and outlines the research questions and hypotheses guiding the investigation.
Presentation of Results: Offers a statistical breakdown of findings regarding the prevalence of harassment and the involvement levels of undergraduates.
Research Hypotheses: Evaluates the null hypothesis using a t-test to determine if there is a significant difference between genders regarding harassment exposure.
Discussion of Findings: Interprets the empirical data in the context of external influences such as family and societal values.
Conclusions: Summarizes the key insights, noting the prevalence of harassment despite the absence of reported significance between genders.
Recommendations: Suggests practical strategies for university institutions, including sensitization programs and professional mentorship for students.
Keywords
Prevalence, Sexual Harassment, University Undergraduates, Delta State University, Gender Harassment, Seductive Behaviour, Sexual Bribery, Sexual Coercion, Sexual Imposition, Student Welfare, Guidance and Counselling, Educational Psychology, Nigeria, Tertiary Institutions, Reporting Mechanisms
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core focus of this research?
The research focuses on assessing the prevalence of sexual harassment among undergraduate students at Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria.
What are the central themes explored?
The study examines definitions of sexual harassment, types of harassment (such as gender harassment and seductive behavior), student perceptions, and the impact of the institutional environment.
What is the primary research goal?
The primary goal is to ascertain the extent of sexual harassment prevalence and to understand the gender dynamics of students involved in or experiencing such behaviors.
Which scientific methodology is employed?
The study utilizes a descriptive survey research design, employing structured questionnaires to gather quantitative data which is then analyzed using mean ratings, standard deviations, and t-tests.
What does the main body cover?
The main body covers the theoretical definitions of sexual harassment, the presentation of survey data, comparative statistical analysis between male and female students, and practical recommendations for university administration.
Which keywords define this work?
Key terms include Prevalence, Sexual Harassment, University Undergraduates, Guidance and Counselling, and Tertiary Institutions.
How is "sexual harassment" defined within the study?
The study adopts a broad definition including bullying, coercion, sexual advances, and unwanted physical or verbal conduct of a sexual nature as interpreted by the target.
What was a major finding concerning gender differences?
The study found no significant statistical difference between male and female undergraduates regarding their experience or involvement in sexual harassment, despite varying levels of perceived negativity.
What role do lecturers play in the recommendations?
The study recommends that lecturers actively assume the roles of counselors, role models, and mentors to help mitigate the risk of harassment on campus.
What institutional changes are proposed?
Proposed changes include organizing comprehensive training programs, holding seminars on sexual harassment awareness, and establishing more effective and accessible complaint mechanisms.
- Quote paper
- Confidence Erhunse (Author), 2019, Prevalence of sexual harassment among university undergraduates, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/505269
