GENDER IDENTIFICATION AND SEXUAL ORIENTATION ON EMOTIONAL WELLBEING AMONG YOUNG ADULTS IN LAGOS METROPOLIS

Abstract

Homosexuality is a recognized risk factor for some emotional illness in high income countries; however, there is little research investigating the relationship between emotional wellbeing and sexual orientation in developing countries, especially in Nigeria. The study aims to examine the impact of gender identification and sexual orientation on emotional well being of young adults in Lagos Metropolitan city. This study employs a descriptive survey research design that examined the attitudes of University of Lagos students towards sexual minorities. The target population consisted of young adults in educational institutions, motor parks, churches, mosques, and resort centres in Lagos metropolis. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 300 participants: 100 from educational institutions, 50 at the motor parks, 50 at the resort centres, 50 at the churches, and 50 at the mosques. Data were collected using self-developed, validated questionnaire divided into demographic profiling and the variables under study. Validation was performed by Health Education experts and a pilot study was conducted with 25 Undergraduates at the Lagos State University which ensured reliability of Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.8 Descriptive statistics of frequency counts were used for demographic data, while inferential statistics of Chi-square examined
the hypotheses at 0.05 significant level. The findings reveal with conclusion that, the complexities of societal attitudes towards sexual minorities and emphasize the importance of fostering inclusive environments that respect and celebrate diversity.