Some Psychosocial Determinants of Cyber-Intimate Image Diffusion: A Cross-Sectional Study among In-School Deaf Adolescents

Abstract

This study determined some psychosocial variables on cyber-intimate image diffusion among in-school deaf adolescents from two states in North-Central Nigeria. A descriptive research design and a multistage sampling procedure were employed in identifying 186 deaf adolescents who participated in the study. Two hypotheses were formulated for the study. The theory of planned behaviour was adopted as a framework for the study. Data generated through the questionnaire were analysed using descriptive statistics of frequency count and simple percentage as well as inferential statistics of bivariate correlation and t-test at .05 level of significance. Sixty-five percent of the respondents were aged 16-19. All respondents used WhatsApp and 78% had a Facebook profile. Findings revealed a positive significant relationship between emotional intelligence (r = .489; p < 0.05), self-esteem (r = .530; p < 0.05) and cyber-intimate image diffusion. Also, significant differences were found between Christian and Muslim respondents (t = 11.250; p < 0.05); low and high emotional intelligence (t = -2.412; p < 0.05); low and high self-esteem (t = -11.958; p < 0.05) with regard to cyber-intimate intimate image diffusion. The study concludes that emotional intelligence and self-esteem are determinants of cyber-intimate image diffusion among deaf adolescents. This study, therefore, recommends a synergy between parents of the deaf and professionals working with deaf adolescents to develop modalities that enhance psychological wellbeing and reduce cyber-intimate image diffusion among deaf adolescents.