The main objective of this study is to identify the perceptions of students towards pre-marital sex among the Grade 12 students of Holy Name University. The study was anchored with the Social Cognitive Theory and Freudian Theory. The researchers used simple random sampling to give the respondents an equal chance to be selected and selected 240 students,120 male and 120 female students. Thus, a survey questionnaire was used to gather data. The gathered data were analyzed and interpreted using t-test of independent sample. The respondents perceive that pre-marital sex is prohibited by the church and is not advisable. The researchers were able to draw conclusion that the respondents are uncertain of the society’s acceptance to pre-marital sex. The researchers also concluded that both male and female respondents have the same perceptions towards pre-marital sex. The influence of the church and the wider community’s perception of pre-marital sex as a sin has profound impact on shaping the attitudes and behavior of these individuals. While personal convictions may vary, it is clear that the teaching of the church and the communal norms play a pivotal role in guiding their decisions regarding intimate relationships. The emphasis on abstinence before marriage, driven by moral and spiritual considerations, underscores the power of cultural factors in shaping individual’s perspectives. For these students, the act of refraining from pre-marital sex is not just about adhering to rules, but also about upholding their faith, maintaining a sense of belonging within their community, and adhering to a set of values that they hold dear.

perception

pre-marital sex