Hidden desires, echoed distress: Dissecting Nigeria’s sexting landscape and its ties to depression

Abstract

In a broader context of increasing incidences of sexting-related backlashes resulting in victims’ depression and, at times, suicide in Nigeria, this study examines the prevalence, trends, and mental health implications of sexting among 700 Nigerian social media users. With the help of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and the Sexting Behaviors and Motives Questionnaire, we found that 58% of respondents engaged in sexting, a high percentage given the cultural conservatism of Nigeria. In addition, more than 41% admitted forwarding or having another forward sexted images or messages without the victims’ consent, increasing the risk of cyberbullying and subsequent mental health problems. In our study, we found a strong positive relationship between sexting and depression; the effects of sexting on depression differed for men and women: Men sexters exhibited higher depression levels than women. Our analysis, which employed descriptive, regression, and Structural Equation Model (SEM) methodologies, suggests that despite regional cultural disparities, sexting behaviors are surprisingly uniform across Nigeria. This study underscores the urgent need for informed strategies addressing digital privacy, security, and mental well-being in the context of sexting in Nigeria.