Perception of Skin Bleaching Among Female Secondary School Students in Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

Despite the social, pathological, physiological and psychological effects that skin bleaching presents, it has become a popular practice among individuals of different age groups, gender and religious affiliations in Nigeria. An objective observation would identify a particular group as being mostly involved in the practice than the others. Upon this backdrop, this study investigated the perception of female secondary school students on skin bleaching practice in Ibadan metropolis. The sample comprised six hundred female students across ten secondary schools in Ibadan metropolis. The instrument employed for the study is titled “Perception of Skin Bleaching Questionnaire” (POSBQ) designed by the researchers. The data collected were analyzed using percentage, mean and t-test statistical measures. The major findings revealed that young girls engaged in skin bleaching as a method of receiving desired attention and relationship from the opposite sex and attract the desired marriage partners. The study revealed that religion has no significant influence on the perception of the respondents as regards skin bleaching while age has significant influence. Therefore, counsellors should enlighten female students on best practice in body beautification and guide them on life building skills such as assertiveness, decision making and healthy living.

Keywords: Beautification, Perception and Skin bleaching