IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

JOURNAL OF HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL POLICY (JHSP )

E-ISSN 2545-5729
P-ISSN 2695 2416
VOL. 11 NO. 4 2025
DOI: 10.56201/jhsp.vol.11.no4.2025.pg61.68

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Building Healthy Relationship Skills in Combating Sexual Misconduct Among Youth in Contemporary Society

Titilayo Folasade Olabode, Gloria Njideka Ayantayo, PhD

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Abstract

In a rapidly evolving world where societal norms and digital influences continuously reshape youth behavior, the prevalence of sexual misconduct among adolescents has become a critical concern. This paper explores the role of healthy relationship skills in combating sexual misconduct among youth in contemporary society. It highlights how a lack of self-awareness, empathy, communication, and respect for boundaries contributes significantly to misconduct such as harassment, coercion, and abuse. Through a qualitative approach, the study emphasises the importance of social-emotional learning and relationship education in preventing risky behaviours and fostering prosocial conduct. The research believes that intentional efforts by families, schools, religious institutions, and youth organisations to instill these skills would develop respectful, safe, and meaningful interpersonal relationships. The study explores the concept of healthy relationships with forms of healthy relationship skills and sexual misconduct and its forms among contemporary youth. Therefore, the study opines that if parents, educators, religious leaders, and community organizations could play a pivotal role in shaping these skills, then the combat against sexual misconduct among youth would be effective and yield positive results.

keywords:

Healthy Relationship, Healthy Relationship Skills, Sexual Misconduct and

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