Abstract
This study investigated the influence of digitalization on sexual behaviour among female undergraduate students at Taraba State University, Jalingo. A descriptive survey design was employed, and data were collected from a stratified random sample of 350 female undergraduates (out of 377 questionnaires distributed, representing a 92.8% response rate) using a structured questionnaire. The findings revealed a high prevalence of exposure to online sexual content (M = 3.60-3.95), with logistic regression analysis confirming that this exposure is a significant positive predictor of engagement in premarital sexual activity (OR = 2.85, p < .001). The study further identified that female students' primary motivations for digital platform use are companionship (M = 3.90) and the pursuit of social validation (M = 3.70), with financial support being a comparatively moderate motivation (M = 3.40). Chi-square tests established that the relationship between digitalization and premarital sexual behaviour is significantly mediated by inadequate parental guidance (χ² = 15.80, p < .001) and peer influence (χ² = 20.15, p < .001). Students strongly endorsed intervention strategies, including strengthening parental communication (M = 4.20), introducing digital literacy programmes (M = 4.15), and providing comprehensive sex education (M = 4.05). The study concludes that digitalization functions as a significant contributing factor to premarital sexual behaviour, an effect that is amplified where parental guidance is weak and peer influence is strong. It is recommended that university administration, in collaboration with parents and guardians, implement a holistic intervention programme focused on digital literacy, open communication, and comprehensive sex education.