Parental Pressure and Cybercrime Engagement among Youth in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions

Abstract

This study examined the connection between parental pressure and cybercrime engagement among Nigerian youth in tertiary institutions. The rise in technology has reshaped interactions and activities, leading to increased online engagement in Nigerian tertiary institutions. However, concerns about the negative consequences, specifically cybercrime, have arisen. This study aimed to understand the influence of parental pressure on youth experiences, explore links between parental pressure and cybercrime, and identify mediating factors. Employing a quantitative approach, a questionnaire survey was administered to undergraduate students in Nigerian tertiary institutions. The sample consisted of 400 participants from Lagos State University and Yaba College of Technology, chosen through multistage cluster sampling. Regression analyses revealed negative associations between parental pressure indicators and academic performance, psychological well-being, and decision-making processes among Nigerian youths. Furthermore, the study found that heightened parental pressure increases the likelihood of youth engaging in cybercrime to meet academic and career expectations. Mediation analyses indicated the pivotal roles of personal motivations, socioeconomic backgrounds, and psychological attributes in mediating the relationship between parental pressure and cybercrime involvement. These findings emphasize the need for supportive environments that prioritize academic and psychological well-being. Collaborative efforts among stakeholders are crucial for addressing the negative outcomes arising from parental pressure and fostering positive youth development.

Keywords: Cybercrime, motivation, parental pressure, scam, youth