Survival Sex as a Coping Mechanism: A Sociological Study among Economically Vulnerable University Students

Abstract

Background: The study explores the sociological aspects of survival sex and disguised prostitution among university students, emphasizing the influence of economic, cultural, and peer pressures, to inform policies that promote student welfare and protection. Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional descriptive design using a qualitative approach to examine survival sex and disguised prostitution among female undergraduate students at the University of Delta, Agbor. A multi-stage random proportionate sampling technique was used to select 384 participants across faculties. Data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires and interviews, covering socio-demographic details, knowledge of survival sex and disguised prostitution, contributing factors, motivations, and possible solutions. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25. Results: The study found that female university students are highly aware of survival sex and disguised prostitution, viewing them as common and closely linked aspects of campus life. Financial hardship, peer pressure, rising living costs, and lack of parental support were identified as main causes of survival sex, while disguised prostitution was driven by the pursuit of luxury, financial instability, social media influence, and desire for social status. Students emphasized the need for targeted solutions, including financial aid, awareness programs, campus jobs, stricter rules, and affordable housing, highlighting the seriousness of the issue and the urgent need for action from institutions and policymakers. Conclusion: Addressing survival sex and disguised prostitution among university students requires urgent, multifaceted institutional and policy interventions that prioritize financial support, awareness, and student welfare.