TITLE:
Cybersex Addiction in Benin Schools (2023)
AUTHORS:
Ataigba Ireti Nethania Elie, Soumaoro Kemo, Koivogui David Sinet, Ayena Fidèle, Moussa Djibrilla, Ousseyni Zika Oumou, Djossou Sègnon Eurydice Elvire, Tokpanoude Coovi Nonwanou Ignace, Sourabie Oumar, Djidonou Anselme, Tognon Tchegnonsi Francis, Gandaho Prosper, Ezin Houngbe Josiane
KEYWORDS:
Cybersex, Addiction, Students, Benin, 2023
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Psychiatry,
Vol.13 No.5,
November
29,
2023
ABSTRACT: Introduction: The development of digital technology over the last few decades has
facilitated access to websites and videos in the field of sexuality,
eliminating many of the boundaries that were restrictive for some and
protective for others. While this evolution has favored better information
sharing, it has also precipitated the emergence of an entirely new phenomenon:
cybersexuality. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate
addiction to cybersexuality in schools in the city of Parakou in 2023. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in general, technical and
vocational secondary schools in Parakou, northern Benin, from December 2022 to
September 2023. A self-administered questionnaire integrating the “short Internet
sex Addiction Test” (s-IATsex) scale was used to assess cybersexuality. Results: A total of 482 students participated in the study. The prevalence of
problematic use of cybersexuality in Parakou schools was 11.4% according to the
s-IATsex (Short Internet sex Addiction Test) scale. The average age of the
students was 16.99 ± 2.16 years, with extremes of 11 and 30 years. The majority
were in secondary school (67.8%). Factors associated with addiction to
cybersexuality were: place of residence (OR = 0.164; p = 0.017), external
genitalia discharge (OR = 5.37; p = 0.049), sexual partner (OR = 2.53; p = 0.010),
access to pornographic sites (OR = 7.96; p Conclusion: Approximately
one pupil in 10 is addicted to cybersexuality at school in the town of
Parakou/Parakou city, Benin. The multiple consequences of this addiction call
for effective preventive actions aimed at vulnerable groups of pupils.