NOTIONS OF SEXUAL ENHANCEMENT AND CONSUMPTION OF BEVERAGES

WITH APHRODISIACS CLAIMS AMONG HETEROSEXUAL MALE

UNDERGRADUATES IN TWO NIGERIAN UNIVERSITIES

BY

ADEKUNLE SAMUEL AJIBEWA

SSP18/19/H/0834
B.Sc (Sociology & Anthropology) ILE-IFE

A THESIS WRITTEN IN THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIOLOGY AND

ANTHROPOLOGY, FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND SUBMITTED TO
THE POSTGRADUATE COLLEGE, OBAFEMI AWOLOWO UNIVERSITY, ILE-
IFE, NIGERIA, IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE
AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF MASTER OF SCIENCE DEGREE IN SOCIOLOGY
AND ANTHROPOLOGY

2023
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I express my profound gratitude to the infallible God of all creation – Jehovah, for his

underserve kindness towards me in all my endeavours right from the beginning to the present.

I will forever be grateful to my supervisor – Prof. Ojo M. Agunbiade, for his

unwavering support and thorough supervision. He proved to be a father figure in his approach

towards me; he was mild and always listen carefully to any complaint. Despite his tight

schedule, he trained me using the most contemporary approach in research work and making

use of the innovative approaches to achieve the set objectives in a quality research work. I

also appreciate the quality contribution to my academic maturity by the following lecturers;

Professor Olakunle Ogunbameru for being my academic role model and mentor, Prof.

Adebusuyi Adeniran – amiable Head of Department. Dr. Kolawole T. Aliyu for his

unwavering support and timely assistant anytime, and Dr. (Mrs) Moghalu – she is really a

mother.

My parents – Mr. and Mrs. Ajibewa are of the utmost importance in my life for being

there for me at all times. They remain the best parents a child could ever have in a lifetime.

Their untainted love and care for me is unimaginably awe-inspiring. My siblings and cousins

(Adeola, Adeyemi, Adewumi, Adebimpe, Ayoade, Ayodeji, Ayokunmi and others) we

forever be in my heart for their loyal love and faithfulness to me in every way. A special

appreciation goes extended family members and the whole Ajibewa family are appreciated

gratefully for their wholesomeness.

My very special, faithful and loyal friends in persons of Olaboye, Nkemkah, Akunne,

Kemi, Funke, Omotayo among others are appreciated for their unfaltering constructive

criticism and faithfulness in dealing with me, even in trivial matters. I will forever be grateful

for the kindness and love shown to me. You people really are brothers born for in the time of

distress. I value you guys for your contributing to the man I am becoming.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE PAGE i
AUTHORISATION TO COPY ii
CERTIFICATION iii
ACKNOWLEDGMENT iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS v
LIST OF TABLES viii
LIST OF FIGURES ix
ABSTRACT x
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study 1
1.2 Statement of Research Problem 4
1.3 Research Questions 7
1.4 Research Objectives 7
1.5 Significance of the Study 8
1.6 Operational Definition of Terms 9
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Normativity of Heterosexuality and Sexual Performance 11
2.1.1 Normativity of Heterosexuality 12
2.1.2 Sexual Performance 13
2.2 Masculinity, Sexual Enhancement, and Sexual Performance 13
2.3 Symbols of Masculinity and Sexual Enhancement 16
2.3.1 Media Representation of Sexual Enhancement and Masculinity 19
2.4 Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic beverages in the Nigerian market 20
2.5 Media Promotion through Branding, Marketing and Labelling of
Aphrodisiacs Beverages 23
2.6 Contexts, Rational and Practices Associated with Sexual Enhancement 25
2.7 Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages among Young Adults and
Implications on the Sexual Health 27
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CHAPTER THREE
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
3.1 Sexual Scripting Theory 29
3.2 Social Practice Theory 31
3.3 Application of the Theories to the Study 33
3.4 Theoretical Framework 37
CHAPTER FOUR
METHODOLOGY
4.1 Research Design 40
4.2 Study Location 41
4.2.1 Study Sites 43
4.3 Study Population 46
4.4 Sampling Design and Procedure 47
4.5 Data Management and Quality Assurance 58
4.6 Ethical Consideration 58
4.7 Logical Framework 59
CHAPTER FIVE
DATA ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS
5.1 Socio-Demographic Characteristics of the Participants 61
5.2 Concept of Sexual Performance and Enhancement 66
5.2.1 Fantasies about Sexual Pleasure among Undergraduates 66
5.2.2 Concept of Sexual Performance among Undergraduates 68
5.2.5 Enhancing Sexual Performance 73
5.3 Mixture and Quality of Aphrodisiac Contents Consumed 77
5.3.1 Examples of Aphrodisiacs known by Undergraduates 77
5.3.2 Quantity of Aphrodisiacs Consumed by Undergraduates 83
5.3.3 Aphrodisiacs Usage Experience among Undergraduates 85
5.3.4 Factors Responsible for the Usage of Aphrodisiacs among
Undergraduates 87
5.4 Factors Influencing the Choice of Beverages 90
5.5 Notions of Responsible Consumption 93
5.5.1 Responsible Consumption of Beverages with Aphrodisiacs among
Undergraduates 93
5.5.2 Image Building among Undergraduates through Consumption of
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Beverages with Aphrodisiacs 94

5.5.3 Adverse Effects of Using Aphrodisiac Beverages among Undergraduates 95
5.6 Discussion of Findings 97
CHAPTER SIX
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
6.1 Summary 112
6.2 Key Findings 114
6.3 Conclusion 116
6.4 Recommendations 117
6.5 Contributions to Knowledge 118
References 121
Appendix I 131
Appendix II 133
Appendix III 135
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LIST OF TABLES

Table Page

4.1 Characteristics of Universities in Osun State 43

4.2 List of Social Media Platforms 48

4.3 Logical Framework 59

5.1 Socio-demographic Characteristics of the Qualitative Participants 61

5.2 Socio-demographic Characteristics of the Quantitative Participants 64

5.3 Sexual Performance 68

5.4 What Sexual Enhancement Entails 74

5.5 Mixture and Quantity of Aphrodisiac Contents Consumed by

Heterosexual Male Students 81

5.6 Multinomial Logistics Regression showing Factors Influencing

the Choice of Beverages with Aphrodisiac claims 90

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LIST OF FIGURES

Figure Page

2.1. Flow-Chat showing Literature Method Search 11

3.4 Theoretical Framework 37

5.1 Factors Responsible for the Usage of Aphrodisiacs among

Undergraduates 89

5.2 Factors Influencing the Choice of Beverages 93

5.3 Adverse effects of using Aphrodisiac Beverages among

Undergraduates 95
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ABSTRACT

This study assessed heterosexual male undergraduates’ conceptions of sexual

performance and sexual enhancement at Obafemi Awolowo University and Osun State

University; investigated the quantities (bottles and cups) of alcoholic and non-alcoholic

beverages with aphrodisiac claims that are consumed and the preferred ways of mixing such

beverages among the undergraduates; and examined the factors that influence the choice of

beverages that is consumed before, during or after any sexual activity among the

undergraduates. It also investigated the notions of responsible consumption of alcoholic and

non-alcoholic beverages with aphrodisiac claims among undergraduates at both universities.

These were with a view to examining how young adults negotiate their masculinity through

their sexual performance and how they use alcohol or other substances to enhance or cope

with their sexual performance.

The research employed a concurrent mixed-method design, utilizing a structured

questionnaire, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and semi-structured interviews for data

collection. Eligible participants included male undergraduates from Obafemi Awolowo

University and those at Osun State University. A multistage purposive sampling technique

was adopted in selecting study participants for the quantitative and qualitative phases.

The quantitative results showed that respondents placed high premium on sexually

satisfying their partners as cultural scripts and gender norms that promote masculinity

emerged dominant in participants’ perceptions of sexual performance. In this light, 82.7%

placed high importance on satisfying their sexual partners by maintaining sexual prowess as a

requisite to pleasuring their partners to attaining orgasm. Not all the participants were able to

sustain such prowess and pleasuring their partners to orgasm. Consumption of beverages with

aphrodisiacs was widely conceived as the norm and potent in enhancing performance

(84.1%). A variety of aphrodisiacs were common among respondents, and those mentioned
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include Japata, Alomo Bitters, Jekomo, Burantasi, Viagra, and Pakurumo. Consumption

patterns reveal a preference for small quantities, primarily one-shot cup (33.5%) and one

100ml bottle (36.7%). Motivations for aphrodisiac consumption included the desire to reduce

sugar levels in the body, boost confidence in sexual relations, and reduce unfavourable sexual

performance. Brand choices are influenced by the intersections of factors, which include

accessibility (p-value – 0.018), availability (p-value – 0.032), previous satisfactory

experience (p-value – 0.003), and cost (p-value – 0.001). The notion of responsible

consumption was interpreted to include awareness of the side effects of available products,

adherence to the seller’s instructions, and justifiable use of aphrodisiacs. Moderations and

self-control were also considered indispensable to becoming responsible consumers.

The study concluded that heterosexual male undergraduates prioritize satisfying

sexual partners to conform to cultural norms and gender expectations. They often use

aphrodisiac beverages to improve sexual performance, demonstrating responsible

consumption and self-control.

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

The consumption of aphrodisiac beverages and sexual enhancement products can be

seen as a way of expressing, enhancing, or compensating for one's masculine identity,

especially in relation to women and other men (Malviya et al., 2011). The media plays a

significant role in shaping and reinforcing the dominant norms and ideals of masculinity,

such as sexual virility, potency, and performance, as well as creating a demand and market

for products that promise to fulfil these expectations (Fiaveh, 2020).

The empirical findings of the academic research on aphrodisiac beverages and

representations of masculinity are diverse and context-specific, depending on the

geographical, cultural, and socio-economic settings of the studies. Some studies have found

that the consumption of aphrodisiac beverages by university students is motivated by

curiosity, peer pressure, experimentation, or recreational purposes, rather than by a genuine

need or desire for sexual enhancement (Ogundele et al., 2021). Other studies have reported

that the consumption of such products is driven by perceived or experienced sexual

dysfunction or dissatisfaction, as well as by psychological factors such as low self-esteem,

anxiety, stress, or depression (Malviya et al., 2011). The media representations of masculinity

and the consumption of sexual enhancement products have been found to have both positive

and negative effects on the consumers' sexual behaviour and health. On one hand, some

consumers may experience increased sexual confidence, pleasure, and satisfaction from using

such products (Malviya, et al., 2011). On the other hand, some consumers may face adverse

physical or psychological consequences from using such products, such as dependency,

addiction, side effects, or unrealistic expectations (Fiaveh, 2020).

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Sexual health defined within the frame of masculine functionality is patriarchal with

implications for sexuality and relationship formation and well-being across the life span of

individuals and social categories (Manortey et al., 2018). Sexual health encompasses diverse

sexual orientations and purposes, including reproduction, pleasure, emotional stability,

spiritual well-being and opportunities to express and experience sexual needs. Opportunities

to engage in sexual activities can also legitimize the gender, ego and attractiveness of people

of different or same sexes for closeness and romantic relationships (Amidu et al., 2010).

One of the main theoretical perspectives that informs the academic research on

aphrodisiac beverages and representations of masculinity is the social constructionist

approach, which views sexuality as a product of social and cultural norms, expectations, and

discourses (Fiaveh, 2020). According to this approach, masculinity is not a fixed or natural

essence, but a fluid and contested identity that is performed and negotiated in various

contexts and situations (Connell & Messerschmidt, 2005).

Aphrodisiacs are substances that enhance sexual arousal, desire, pleasure, and

performance (Malviya, et al., 2011). They can be classified into three categories: substances

that increase libido, substances that increase sexual potency, and substances that increase

sexual pleasure. Aphrodisiac beverages are often marketed as herbal remedies that can boost

male sexual health and well-being, as well as provide a psychological boost in sexual

confidence (Fiaveh et al., 2020). However, the scientific evidence for the efficacy and safety

of these products is scarce and inconclusive.

Historically, aphrodisiacs were sought to ensure both male and female potency, but

they also had a connection to ideas about masculinity. There are a variety of sexual

enhancement practices that go beyond the scope of treating erectile dysfunction and other

sexual dysfunctions, such as premature or retrogressive ejaculation, erectile that is delayed,

slowed, or even stopped altogether, orgasmic disorder and insatiable sexual behaviour. When
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it comes to sexual behaviour and notions of masculinities among young people, there has

been a quiet shift over the last few decades. Social media and web disseminating easy-going

lifestyles have contributed to these recent developments, even in countries where such

transition is occurring at a slower rate. (Caltabiano et al., 2020; Inchley et al., 2020; Wellings

et al., 2019).

For the most part, men maintain a complicated conceptualisation of masculinities that

might be described as inconsistent or ambiguous at times. In this conceptualisation, the

relationship between men's view of what account for masculinity in their society and their

subjective experience as men is established (Gonalons-Pons & Gangl, 2021). It has become

increasingly common for many men to associate the use of aphrodisiacs and other sexual

enhancement techniques with the performance of masculinity, and sexual enhancement

activities which subjectively play significant role in certain men's gender

gratification (Gonalons-Pons & Gangl, 2021). Men who are more successful in bed are

frequently praised (Ajao et al., 2018). However, the existence of conceptions of masculinities

in relation to rates of aphrodisiacs intake existed over the years (Ajao et al., 2018), but the

implications for this phenomenon have only in recent times been examined (Joseph et al.,

2015).

Research has suggested that traditional masculine norms may promote risk-taking

behaviours and a focus on sexual conquest, which may contribute to the use of sexual

enhancement products (Bancroft et al., 2003). By examining how representations of

masculinity may influence the consumption of aphrodisiacs, researchers may be better able to

identify potential interventions to promote responsible behaviour and mitigate risks.

Additionally, the consumption of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages with aphrodisiac

claims may have potential health risks, particularly when consumed irresponsibly or in large

quantities. For example, some aphrodisiacs may interact negatively with medications or cause
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adverse effects such as nausea or dizziness. By better understanding the context and rationale

for such consumption, researchers can identify potential risks and promote responsible

behaviour.

Studies on alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages had been conducted among high

school and university students in Nigeria, while little attention has been paid to the context

and rationale behind the consumption of these products. Hence, this study explores the

conceptions of sexual performance and sexual enhancement, and investigate the rate of

consumptions of aphrodisiacs among heterosexual male undergraduates in two Nigerian

universities. In addition, it examines the factors influencing the decisions around the brand

consumed, and interrogate the notions of responsible consumptions.

1.2 Statement of Research Problem

Men's sexual prowess is often associated with or linked to masculinity in

societies (Atindanbila et al., 2014). When it comes to choosing an aphrodisiac, most men are

more concerned with the potency of the sex enhancers than with any negative side effects

(Manortey et al., 2018). When comparing men and women, the use of sex boosting products

is more prevalent in men (Goldstein, 2011).

The notion of sexual enhancement and the consumption of beverages with aphrodisiac

claims among heterosexual male undergraduates in Nigerian universities is a significant area

of inquiry, as it intersects with changing values and the transition into adulthood. This

research aims to investigate the factors influencing the adoption of such practices, the

motivations behind them, and their potential impact on sexual behaviour and relationships

(Ajayi, 2017; Dipeolu et al., 2018; Ezenwaka & Ezejiofor, 2019; Igwe et al., 2016;

Makanjuola & Adelekan, 2015).

In recent years, Nigerian society has undergone significant social and cultural

transformations, resulting in changes in attitudes, values, and behaviours related to sexuality

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(Ajayi, 2017). The increasing prevalence of Western media, globalization, and urbanization

have contributed to the erosion of traditional sexual norms and the emergence of new patterns

of behaviour among young adults (Dipeolu et al., 2018). Consequently, notions of sexual

enhancement and the consumption of beverages with aphrodisiac claims have gained

attention as potential means to enhance sexual performance and pleasure.

In Nigeria, the sale and usage of sexual performance enhancement medications

without prescription is on the rise (Makwana et al., 2013). Products with aphrodisiac claims

are promoted unregulated in different spaces, including print and electronic media. A

growing number of these products are produced locally, imported from neighbouring

countries and from abroad. They are sold in open markets, bus stops, groceries, and in

traffics. Some of the products are registered with the National Agency for Food, Drugs

Administration and Control (NAFDAC), while others are unregistered. Beyond registration

as a form of regulation, NAFDAC monitors and police consumers markets for products or

goods that could cause harm and affect the health of consumers. In this direction, a report in

the Guardian Newspaper in 2016 showed that NAFDAC impounded drugs with vardenafil

content worth 15 million Naira (NAN, 2016). The action led to the withdrawal of

several herbal male aphrodisiacs’ items from the market because most of the drugs were

prescription based in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. A persistent use of secretion,

could result in kidney dysfunction, heart stroke, cardiogenic shock, and impotence in certain

people (Ocloo, 2015). The Ministry of Health, NAFDAC and other health professionals have

warned consumers about the negative effects of aphrodisiacs on men's health. These actions

are expected to be guided by responsible consumption on the part of the consumers. It is

taken for granted that an informed consumer is aware of the consequences of their choices

and the possible implications on their well-being. Despite these warns and expectations,

products with vardenafil content are easily accessed by young and old, local and imported
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products with aphrodisiac claims are advertised daily, sold in public spaces and preferred

among young males.

Adulthood is a critical stage in the life course when individuals navigate the transition

from adolescence to independent adulthood, assuming adult roles and responsibilities. During

this phase, individuals often seek to establish their sexual identity, form intimate

relationships, and explore their sexual desires and preferences. The pressures and

expectations associated with this transition can influence the adoption of various strategies,

including the consumption of substances or products believed to enhance sexual experiences

(Ajayi, 2017; Igwe et al., 2016).

To address these research questions, a mixed-methods approach was employed,

combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. The study targeted two Nigerian

universities namely Obafemi Awolowo University and Osun State University, considering

their diverse student populations and geographical locations. By exploring the experiences,

attitudes, and perceptions of heterosexual male undergraduates, this research provided a

comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon and its implications for sexual health and

well-being.

1.3 Research Questions

The research questions to consider in this study are:

1. What are the conceptions of sexual performance and sexual enhancement among

heterosexual male undergraduates?

2. What are the quantities (bottles and cups) of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages

with aphrodisiac claims that are consumed and the preferred ways of mixing such

beverages among the undergraduates?

3. What are the factors that influence the choice of beverage that is consumed before,

during or after any sexual activity among the undergraduates?

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4. What are the notions of responsible consumption of alcoholic and non-alcoholic

beverages with aphrodisiac claims among undergraduates at both universities?

1.4 Research Objectives

The general objective of this study is to explore the notions of sexual enhancement

and consumption of beverages with aphrodisiacs claims among heterosexual male

undergraduates in two Nigerian universities. The specific objectives are to:

1. assess heterosexual male undergraduates’ conceptions of sexual performance and

sexual enhancement at the two universities;

2. investigate the quantities (bottles and cups) of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages

with aphrodisiac claims that are consumed and the preferred ways of mixing such

beverages among the undergraduates;

3. examine the factors that influence the choice of beverage that is consumed before,

during or after any sexual activity among the undergraduates; and

4. interrogate the notions of responsible consumption of alcoholic and non-alcoholic

beverages with aphrodisiac claims among undergraduates at both universities.

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study explored the sociology of substance consumption among young adults in

Nigeria, with a focus on how they use sexual enhancement practices to shape their sexual

health and their sense of masculinity. In this context, the study investigated how young adults

consume various substances or products that claim to boost their sexual performance or

pleasure, either as a way of stimulating their sexual activities or as a way of expressing their

dominant masculinity. The study also examined how these practices are related to the

sociology of health, which studies how social factors affect health outcomes and health

behaviours. The study paid attention to the perspectives of young adults on the benefits and
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risks of using sexual enhancement practices, as well as the social norms and expectations that

shape their choices and experiences.

Studies focusing on the context, rationale, and responsible consumption of alcoholic

and non-alcoholic beverages with aphrodisiac claims will increase the knowledge on the

potential implications for both individual and societal health. Understanding the motivations

and influences behind the consumption of such products can help identify potential risks and

promote responsible behaviour. Therefore, this study took a contextual interpretation of

important factors that may influence the consumption of aphrodisiac beverages such as

representations of masculinity.

The study is significant because it provided valuable insights into the complex and

dynamic relationship between consumption, sexuality, and masculinity among young adults

in Nigeria. The study contributed to the existing literature on the sociology of substance

consumption and health, as well as the gender studies literature on masculinity and sexuality.

The study also addressed a gap in the empirical research on the prevalence, correlates, and

frequency of alcohol use among young adults in Nigeria, which is one of the common

substances used for sexual enhancement purposes. The study explored how alcohol use

affects young adults' sexual health and their construction of hegemonic masculinity. The

study examined how young adults negotiate their masculinity through their sexual

performance and how they use alcohol or other substances to enhance or cope with their

sexual performance. The study also analysed how young adults' consumption patterns are

influenced by their social class, family structure, family support, religion, and religiosity. The

study thus provided a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the sociology of

consumption among young adults in Nigeria.

Understanding the underlying motivations for the consumption of beverages with

aphrodisiac claims among heterosexual male undergraduates is crucial for several reasons.
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Firstly, it sheds light on the influence of cultural and societal values on sexual behaviour and

decision-making processes (Ajayi, 2017). Secondly, it provides insights into the impact of

media representations and marketing strategies in shaping perceptions of sexuality and sexual

enhancement (Dipeolu et al., 2018). Finally, it contributes to the development of targeted

interventions and educational programs aimed at promoting healthier sexual practices and

relationships among young adults (Ajayi, 2017; Makanjuola & Adelekan, 2015).

1.6 Definition of Terms

Masculinity: this refers to the roles, behaviours and attributes that are considered appropriate

for boys and men in a given society.

Hegemonic masculinity: this refers to the societal pattern in which stereotypically male

traits are idealized as the masculine cultural ideal, explaining how and why men maintain

dominant social roles over women.

Sexual enhancement: this refers to alcoholic and non-alcoholic substances ingested

to provide or enhance sexual gratification.

Aphrodisiac beverages: alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages that stimulates sexual desire,

elongate sexual activities, and prolong ejaculation during sexual activities.

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CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

This chapter provides a review of related literature to the subject. A review of current

and relevant literatures was conducted, and the data were synthesized based on distinct

topics, lines of argument, similarities, and discrepancies. Each article's and grey literature's

findings were compared to similar and contradictory findings. The implications and

shortcomings are also addressed. In light of this, several types of literature have produced a

variety of findings on the concept of masculinity and sexual enhancement.

Methods of Data Search

The literature was found via online databases and grey literature. The majority of the

online literature searches ranged from 2000 to 2020. Though some of the materials, which

had important information prior to the year 2000, were included.

Google Scholar, freefullpdf, JSTOR, Science Direct, BMC, Sage, Elsevier, and

ResearchGate were used to search for literature online. Using keywords and Boolean

operators, studies such as Sexual enhancement AND Masculinity, Sexual enhancement

among young adults, and Hegemonic Masculinity were found. Article references and

bibliographies were also explored to locate more relevant materials.

In order to evaluate the literature, inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. Both

published and unpublished pieces were considered for inclusion. The peer-reviewed articles

on empirical investigations, theoretical articles, technical reports, thesis papers, and

conference papers that were published were all related to the study. Articles unrelated to the

study were among the exclusion criteria.

To depict the flow of the method search, the 2009 PRISMA (Preferred Reporting

Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) diagram flow format was used. In the first

step, 595 online items were identified using databases utilising keywords, titles, and
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references from previously recognised publications. In the second step, 194 duplicates were

removed, leaving 401 materials. After reading the abstract and keywords, 196 resources were

chosen and 205 materials were excluded in the third step. At the fourth step, the total of 196

materials were read in part using the IMRAD (Introduction, Methodology, Result, Abstract,

and Discussion) style, after which 112 materials were chosen based on the most relevant

articles to the study (inclusion criteria) and 84 materials were excluded based on the

exclusion criteria. The search process is depicted graphically in Figure 2.1.

Literature identified through Additional literature identified

Google Scholar, freefullpdf, through other sources
Jstor, Sage, Elsevier, BMC (n = 19)
(n = 576)

Total number of Literatures

identified
(n = 595)

Number after removing Number excluded

duplicates after reading abstract
(n = 401) (n = 205)

Number after screening the Number excluded

abstract after reading in parts
(n = 196) (n = 84)

Number selected after full

reading
(n = 112)

Format Adopted and modified from Moher et al., (2009)

2.1 Normativity of Heterosexuality and Sexual Performance

Normativity is the concept that is used to describe the cultural and social norms that

regulate and dictate the behaviour of individuals in society. These norms play a significant

role in determining what is considered acceptable or appropriate behaviour and what is not.
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The concept of normativity is particularly relevant in the context of heterosexuality and

sexual performance, as these are two areas that are often subject to societal norms and

expectations.

2.1.1 Normativity of Heterosexuality

The normativity of heterosexuality refers to the idea that heterosexual relationships

and behaviours are seen as the norm, while other forms of sexual orientation or gender

identity are seen as deviant or abnormal. This concept has been widely explored in academic

literature, with many scholars arguing that heteronormativity is deeply embedded in our

social and cultural institutions (Kohli, 2019).

One area in which heteronormativity is particularly evident is in the media. Television

shows, movies, and advertising often present heterosexual relationships as the norm, while

other forms of sexuality are marginalized or ignored altogether (Herek, 2016). This can lead

to a sense of invisibility for people who do not identify as heterosexual, as well as reinforcing

the idea that heterosexuality is the only acceptable form of sexual expression.

Another way in which heteronormativity is reinforced is through legal and

institutional policies. For example, until recently, marriage was only legally recognized

between a man and a woman in many countries, reinforcing the idea that heterosexual

relationships were the only acceptable form of union (Espín, 2018). Similarly, many religious

institutions have traditionally upheld heterosexuality as the only acceptable form of sexual

expression, further reinforcing this norm.

The normativity of heterosexuality also plays out in interpersonal interactions. Many

people assume that others are heterosexual unless they are explicitly told otherwise, which

can make it difficult for people who do not identify as heterosexual to come out and express

their true identity (Frost & Meyer, 2012). This can lead to feelings of isolation and alienation,

as well as reinforcing the idea that heterosexuality is the norm.

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2.1.2 Sexual Performance

In addition to the normativity of heterosexuality, norms also play a role in shaping our

understanding of sexual performance. Society has established certain expectations and norms

surrounding sexual behaviour, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy or shame for those

who do not conform to these norms (Hawkins & Pingel, 2018).

One way in which norms shape our understanding of sexual performance is through

the media. Pornography, for example, often presents a highly idealized and unrealistic

version of sexual behaviour, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy or shame for those who

do not conform to these expectations (Owen et al., 2011). Similarly, advertising often

presents a very narrow view of what is considered attractive or desirable, which can lead to

feelings of inadequacy for those who do not conform to these norms.

Norms also play a role in shaping our understanding of sexual consent. Many people

are taught to believe that sex should be initiated by men and that women should be passive

recipients (Wentzell, 2016). This can lead to situations in which women feel unable to

express their own desires and preferences, which can contribute to a culture of sexual

violence and harassment.

2.2 Masculinity, Sexual Enhancement, and Sexual Performance

Masculinity, as a social construct, varies across cultures and societies, but certain

commonalities exist in the association of masculinity with sexual prowess, virility, and

power. In many societies, young adults, especially men, may feel pressure to conform to

societal expectations of masculinity, which can contribute to the use of aphrodisiacs as a

means to enhance sexual performance and validate their masculine identity.

Across different cultures, masculinity is often associated with sexual virility and the

ability to satisfy sexual partners (Connell, 2005). In this context, the use of aphrodisiacs

becomes appealing to young adults who seek to embody the ideals of masculinity.
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Aphrodisiacs are believed to enhance sexual desire, improve erectile function, and increase

stamina, thus aligning with the cultural expectations of male sexual prowess (Ossai et al.,

2017). By utilizing aphrodisiacs, young adults attempt to validate and reinforce their

masculinity by demonstrating their ability to excel in sexual encounters.

The use of aphrodisiacs can also be influenced by societal messages and media

representations of masculinity. Media often portrays masculine individuals as highly

sexualized beings with insatiable sexual appetites (Connell, 2005). Young adults exposed to

these portrayals may internalize these messages and feel pressure to conform to these ideals.

As a result, they may turn to aphrodisiacs as a way to enhance their sexual performance and

meet the perceived expectations of masculinity imposed by society and media.

Moreover, peer influence and social norms also contribute to the use of aphrodisiacs

among young adults. Within peer groups, there may be a tacit understanding that using

aphrodisiacs enhances one's sexual abilities and, consequently, one's masculine identity.

Young adults may feel compelled to engage in the use of aphrodisiacs to fit in, gain social

acceptance, or avoid the stigma associated with perceived sexual inadequacy (Ossai et al.,

2017). The desire to conform to group norms and maintain a positive image within their

social circles can influence their decision to use aphrodisiacs.

It is important to note that the relationship between masculinity and the use of

aphrodisiacs is not without its complexities and variations. While there may be societal

pressures and cultural expectations surrounding masculinity, individual beliefs, motivations,

and personal experiences also influence the use of aphrodisiacs among young adults. Some

individuals may genuinely believe in the efficacy of aphrodisiacs and seek them out as a

means of personal enhancement, irrespective of societal pressures.

The phenomenon of masculinity plays a significant role in the use of aphrodisiacs

among young adults in the Nigerian context. Masculinity in Nigerian society is closely
 27

associated with virility, sexual potency, and sexual prowess, and it is highly valued within the

cultural norms and expectations (Murray & Nyoni, 2013). The pursuit of these masculine

ideals, combined with societal pressures and expectations, often leads young adults to seek

means to enhance their sexual performance and fulfil the perceived requirements of

masculinity.

In Nigerian culture, the concept of masculinity is deeply ingrained and has a strong

influence on individuals' self-perception and behaviour. Traditional beliefs and cultural

practices emphasize the importance of sexual virility and prowess in defining manhood

(Murray & Nyoni, 2013). Young Nigerian men, therefore, feel compelled to exhibit and

maintain their masculinity to gain social recognition and respect. Consequently, the use of

aphrodisiacs becomes an appealing option for young adults striving to meet these societal

expectations and enhance their sexual abilities.

The use of aphrodisiacs serves as a means for young Nigerian men to demonstrate

their masculinity and sexual prowess. By using aphrodisiacs, they perceive themselves as

taking proactive steps to enhance their sexual performance, thereby reaffirming their

masculine identity. Research has shown that young adults who use aphrodisiacs often do so

to boost their self-confidence, overcome sexual performance anxiety, and ensure satisfactory

sexual encounters (Akintayo et al., 2018). These individuals believe that by using

aphrodisiacs, they are living up to the cultural ideals of masculinity and fulfilling their role as

sexual partners.

Furthermore, the use of aphrodisiacs among young Nigerian adults is often motivated

by the desire to meet the sexual expectations of their partners. Nigerian culture places a

strong emphasis on sexual satisfaction within relationships, and men are expected to be

sexually competent and able to please their partners (Murray & Nyoni, 2013). Consequently,

young adults may turn to aphrodisiacs as a means to enhance their sexual performance,
 28

increase their libido, and satisfy their partners' desires. The use of aphrodisiacs is perceived

as a way to ensure successful sexual encounters, maintain intimate relationships, and

reinforce their masculinity.

It is important to recognize that the relationship between masculinity and the use of

aphrodisiacs is complex and multifaceted. While cultural expectations and societal pressures

may contribute to the use of aphrodisiacs, individual motivations and personal beliefs also

play a role. Some young adults may feel compelled to use aphrodisiacs to conform to

masculine ideals, while others may genuinely believe in the efficacy of these substances and

seek them out as a means of self-improvement.

2.3 Symbols of Masculinity and Sexual Enhancement

Across cultures, symbols in diverse forms are available and transmitted through the

socialisation process to inculcate into boys as they are growing up of what masculinities

entail and how improve or enhance their masculinities. Symbolically, the male genital is

associated with courage, bravery, boldness, strength, and well-being. Emphasis is thus placed

in ensuring its functionality beyond the reproductive age periods into late adulthood. The

utilitarian value placed on the male genitals has contributed to its treatment as distinct from

the rest of a man's body, almost as if it has its own existence (Clark, 2017). The orientation

towards preserving the penis is somewhat imbibed from childhood. Boys are taught to value

their penal size and also the capacity to initiate and sustain erection before their readiness for

their first coitus experience (Schepers et al., 2015). Caresses and other forms of sexual

expression that do not include penetration are not considered 'sex' by men, no matter how

passionate they are.

Men are taught that becoming a man means having characteristics such as strength,

defensiveness, bravery, persistence, and a sense of control, among others. Penetrative sex and

opportunities to create and sustain erection are less openly discussed, but strongly accepted
 29

cultural practice of demonstrating what it means to be masculine in heterosexual relations.

Through various means of socialisation and interactions, penal erection and penetration are

imbibed as forms of male sexual prowess and instrumental to ensuring satisfaction in

heterosexual relations even when financial and other material resources are lacking (Berdahl

& Glick, 2018; Izugbara, 2015). The commonality of this orientation towards heterosexual

relations and satisfaction plays critical roles in the consolidation of hegemonic masculinity.

As young male grow into adulthood, empirical evidence has shown how the

orientation about penal erection and penetration is transferred into early adulthood and sexual

networking. Among adolescent males in Ghana, Bingenheimer et al. (2015) reported that it

was normative for men to share a sense of significant peer pressure to engage in sexual

intercourse with multiple persons. A major motivating factor is the fear that their masculinity

would be ridiculed or questioned if they failed to engage and satisfy multiple women through

penetrative sex. The consequences notwithstanding, these men have absorbed the social

definitions of the woman’s body as a psychosocial space of sexual satisfaction. The vaginal

and anal chambers are regularly used as metaphors for control and servitude (Izugbara, 2015;

Strathern, 2016).

The readiness to absorb without interrogating masculinities values and beliefs have

generated some levels of anxiety for some men during sexual penetrative episodes. Such men

presume that manliness is about maintaining erection and any deviation from achieving and

sustaining it during sexual intercourse could lead to shame, rejection and dissatisfaction

(Robinson-Wood, 2017). The fear of shame and the need to improve acceptance and lasting

penetrative intercourse have been identified as key contributors to aphrodisiacs use among

sexually active males (Dumbili, 2016). In many African and Asian societies, there are be

significant cultural and societal pressures related to masculinity, virility, and sexual

performance. Men may feel a strong social expectation to demonstrate their sexual prowess
 30

and satisfy their partners. The fear of shame or being seen as inadequate in sexual matters

drove some men to seek solutions, such as aphrodisiacs, to enhance their sexual performance

and maintain social acceptance. This fear are rooted in cultural beliefs and norms that

emphasize male sexual prowess and reproductive success. In Ghana, Nigerian and some other

African countries as well as Asian countries, there is a belief in the power of certain herbs

and concoctions to improve sexual stamina and endurance. Men uses these aphrodisiacs in

the hope of achieving longer-lasting intercourse and satisfying their partners' expectations.

Masculinity, in these contexts, is characterized by virility, sexual potency, and strength.

(Murray & Nyoni, 2013).

Aphrodisiacs are substances that are believed to increase sexual desire and enhance

sexual performance. In countries like Ghana, about 61% of the men uses aphrodisiacs

(Danquah et al., 2017), in Nigeria, the use of aphrodisiacs is prevalent, particularly among

young adults. The use of aphrodisiacs is often attributed to cultural beliefs and traditional

practices that promote the use of natural remedies for various ailments, including sexual

dysfunction (Onwuasoanya & Uzuegbunam, 2014; Odebode & Awoye, 2022).

Research has shown that young Nigerian men use aphrodisiacs to enhance their sexual

performance and to maintain their masculinity. In a study by Akintayo and colleagues (2018),

it was reported that young Nigerian men used aphrodisiacs to overcome sexual performance

anxiety, increase sexual desire, and maintain sexual stamina. The study further revealed that

the use of aphrodisiacs was associated with the desire to fulfil cultural expectations of

masculinity and sexual prowess.

The use of aphrodisiacs among young Nigerian men is also driven by the need to meet

the sexual expectations of their partners. Nigerian culture places a high premium on sexual

satisfaction in marriage, and men are expected to be able to satisfy their partners sexually. As
 31

such, young men may use aphrodisiacs to ensure that they meet their partner's sexual

expectations and maintain their sexual relationships (Murray & Nyoni, 2013).

However, there is a lack of specific emphasis on the perspectives and experiences of

adolescents themselves. Adolescence is a critical period of sexual development and identity

formation, and understanding their unique conceptions, attitudes, and behaviours regarding

sexual performance and enhancement is essential. This study explores how adolescents

perceive sexual performance, their awareness of sexual enhancement methods, and the

factors that influence their decision-making in this regard.

2.3.1 Media Representation of Sexual Enhancement and Masculinity

Aphrodisiacs have long been associated with the enhancement of sexual performance

and the reinforcement of masculinity. Among adolescents, the consumption of aphrodisiacs is

often driven by the desire to improve sexual experiences and conform to societal expectations

of masculinity. Studies have indicated varying levels of aphrodisiac use among adolescents.

A study conducted in Ghana found that approximately 30% of adolescents reported using

aphrodisiacs, primarily herbal remedies, to enhance sexual performance (Doku et al., 2020).

Similarly, a study in Nigeria reported that nearly 25% of male adolescents had used

aphrodisiacs, often obtained without medical prescription (Abiodun et al., 2019). These

findings suggest a notable prevalence of aphrodisiac consumption among adolescents.

Adolescents consume aphrodisiacs for diverse reasons. These motivations include a

desire to enhance sexual pleasure, impress partners, boost self-confidence, and conform to

societal ideals of masculinity. Adolescents may perceive aphrodisiacs as a means to assert

their sexual prowess and meet societal expectations regarding masculinity and virility

(Bartholomew et al., 2021). The consumption of aphrodisiacs may also be driven by the

belief that they can address sexual performance anxieties and insecurities. The consumption
 32

of aphrodisiacs can be seen as an attempt to attain an idealized version of sexual prowess and

assert one's masculinity within the context of African cultural norms (Udonne et al., 2019).

The consumption of aphrodisiacs among adolescents raises concerns about sexual

health risks. Adolescents often lack accurate knowledge about the proper use, dosage, and

potential side effects of aphrodisiacs. Excessive consumption or reliance on aphrodisiacs may

also overshadow the importance of consent, communication, and practicing safe sex,

potentially increasing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended

pregnancies (Bellis et al., 2008). Furthermore, reliance on aphrodisiacs may overshadow the

importance of communication, consent, and practicing safe sex, potentially increasing the risk

of unintended pregnancies and STIs.

Consumption of aphrodisiacs among adolescents is closely linked to societal ideals of

masculinity. Media representations, cultural expectations, and peer pressure can reinforce the

notion that masculinity is associated with sexual performance and the use of aphrodisiacs.

This can exert significant pressure on young men to conform to these expectations,

potentially leading to feelings of inadequacy, increased risk-taking behaviours, and a narrow

understanding of masculinity beyond sexual prowess (Vrangalova, 2022).

While the literatures touch on the influence of media representations and cultural

expectations on the association between aphrodisiacs and masculinity, further exploration is

necessary. This study examines the role of media platforms, advertising, and peer influences

in shaping adolescents' perceptions of masculinity and the use of aphrodisiacs. Additionally,

the qualitative part of this seeks to explore how adolescents interpret and respond to these

representations.

2.4 Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic beverages in the Nigerian market

Beverages are commonly accepted to be a sort of food and a key source of energy in

most countries. For example, it is observed that they constitute a large component of the
 33

American diet, so contributing to the intake of numerous nutrients (Park et al., 2002). In

Nigeria, as in most other countries, the issue of beverage consumption is always divided into

two categories: alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Non-alcoholic beverages can also be

classified as traditional or non-traditional. Traditional non-alcoholic beverages in Nigeria

include kunun-zaki, braga, and zobo (Ade-Omowaye et al., 2006), while non-traditional

beverages include malt drinks (such as Malta Guiness, Maltina, and Amstel Malta); vegetable

and fruit juices (such as Pure Heaven, Rabena juice, and Chivita); and carbonated drinks

(such as Coca-Cola, Fanta, Limca, Seven Up, Pepsi Cola). It seems reasonable to assert that a

variety of factors will influence consumers' use of non-alcoholic beverages. Adolescents,

according to Jas, (1998), are representative of society in terms of eating behaviour since their

food choice is governed by an interaction of several diverse influences. These elements are

classified as socioeconomic, biological, and psychological. Culture, availability, and pricing

are examples of socio-cultural influences, whereas biological factors include energy and food

requirements. Psychological aspects include one's mood and eating habits.

Economically, the alcoholic beverage industry in Nigeria is becoming increasingly

profitable, with market research predicting yearly consumption increase of more than 6%

until 2022. According to the World Health Organization, this is a little increase from the 5%

yearly rise recorded between 2014 and 2016, which pushed average consumption to 25.5

litres. According to National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data, Nigerians spent $570 million

on alcohol that year, and the industry was widely seen as resistant to the impacts of the

recession in 2015-16 (AsokoInsight, 2020).

According to National Bureau of Statistics data, the southern part of the country

consumes the most alcohol, with a combined spending of $431 million, accounting for nearly

75 percent of total consumption. The remaining 25% is divided among the country's North

Central, North East, and North West regions, which have lower consumption rates due to
 34

significant Islamic influences. Given the market's size, a number of global conglomerates

have operations in Nigeria, and local production accounts for 80 percent of consumption.

According to market data, beer is the most extensively consumed alcoholic beverage,

accounting for 55% of the market, followed by spirits (30%) and wine (15%). There are also

some indigenous drinks on the market, such as palm wine, which is fermented from palm tree

sap, and burukutu, which is brewed from wheat (AsokoInsight, 2020).

Non-alcoholic beverages are thought to provide everything from micronutrient-

enriched water to cancer fighting teas like green tea, vitamin provision, and a slew of other

products with miraculous health benefits, whereas excessive consumption of alcoholic

beverages is extremely harmful to health. Nonetheless, evidence suggests that demand for

alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages is influenced not only by economic factors such as

price and income, but also by household socio-demographic factors (Angulo et al., 2001).

Cultural differences in drinking practices, attitudes, and health difficulties, for example, have

far-reaching ramifications for the consumption of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages

around the world. In this regard, it is commonly recognised in the research that

socioeconomic characteristics that significantly influence the demand for alcoholic beverages

may not be the same as those that influence the demand for non-alcoholic beverages. The

decision to buy non-alcoholic beverages, for example, has been found to be the same even

with changes in price, but that of alcoholic beverages is considered change as prices

fluctuate (Angulo et al., 2001; Gallet, 2007).

During typical social and ceremonial events in Nigeria, the most widely consumed

alcoholic and non-alcoholic) beverages are palm wine, gin, and beer (alcoholic), as well as

fruit juices such as orange and apple, soft drinks, cocoa drinks, sports drinks, and tea (non-

alcoholic). However, Dimelu et al., (2011) revealed evidence that more than 60% of the

Nigerian households studied spent a significant portion of their household income on

 35

alcoholic beverages rather than non-alcoholic drinks. Higher alcoholic beverage prices may

be to blame for the authors' observed higher contribution of alcoholic beverages to household

budgets in the country.

The above paragraphs provide valuable information about beverage consumption in

Nigeria, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. However, there is a gap in the

literature regarding the factors influencing the brand of aphrodisiac consumed by adolescents.

The paragraphs primarily focus on the categorization of beverages, the economic aspects of

the alcoholic beverage industry, and the prevalence of beverage consumption in Nigeria. The

specific factors influencing the brand choice of aphrodisiacs among adolescents are not

explored.

To address this gap, this study seeks understand the factors that shape adolescents'

decisions when selecting a specific brand of aphrodisiac. Factors that could potentially

influence brand choice may include marketing strategies, pricing, availability, packaging,

perceived effectiveness, and cultural influences. Exploring these factors would provide

insights into the marketing tactics employed by aphrodisiac manufacturers and the impact of

branding on adolescents' preferences and behaviours.

2.5 Media Promotion through Branding, Marketing and Labelling of Aphrodisiacs

Beverages

There is just a small body of work that investigates how sexual enhancement is

programmed through the media and how to resist it. According to the findings of a study on

changing gender dynamics and sexual enhancement practices among Indonesian youth

conducted by Hardon & Idrus, (2015), supermarkets and convenience stores in Makassar sell

a variety of herbal products, nutritional supplements, and jamu (a traditional beverage

produced in Java), all of which promise to increase sexual power and pleasure. Among the

most well-known products are Hormoviton and Sparta X, both billed as herbal Viagra, as
 36

well as ginseng-infused energy beverages. These items are often found near the cashier at eye

level, indicating that they are in high demand. Furthermore, the products are extensively

promoted, both online and on television. The packaging of this energy drink stresses the

ginseng content as well as the level of manhood that young men are encouraged to attain. The

label for the well-known 'herbal Viagra' Sparta X claims that by using the supplement,

customers can acquire warrior-like vigour.

Looking at the photos that accompany these products on the internet, it is clear that

they are part of a masculinity crisis. On the Sparta X website (www.sparta-X.com), there is

an image of a man who appears to be suffering from 'sexual dysfunction,' as well as an image

of a confident-looking girl who appears to be disappointed with his performance. According

to the same source, aphrodisiacs are popular in their countries of origin (Thailand and China).

Testimonials from Indonesian guys who have used Sparta X indicate that the supplement has

helped them achieve confidence in their sexuality. In an advertising for Neo Hormoviton,

another herbal Viagra, a sexually demanding woman puts pressure on an adult male to

perform in bed (Hardon & Idrus, 2015).

Super Magic Man and Magic Power tissues are not advertised on billboards, radio, or

television. Both goods' packaging includes photos of sexy ladies, which are likely supposed

to lend symbolic efficacy to the functioning of the wet tissues (Hardon & Idrus, 2015).

Marketing and advertising strategies play a significant role in shaping consumer

preferences, including those of adolescents. Investigating the impact of marketing techniques

employed by aphrodisiac manufacturers, such as packaging design, product placement,

celebrity endorsements, and online promotions, would provide insights into how these

strategies influence adolescents' brand choices.

Peer influence is another important factor that can shape adolescents' preferences for

certain brands and quantities of aphrodisiacs. Research could explore how peer pressure,
 37

social norms, and the desire for acceptance influence adolescents' consumption patterns and

choices. Additionally, the influence of social media, including influencers and online

communities, on adolescents' perceptions and decisions related to aphrodisiac consumption

warrants further investigation.

Furthermore, the literature provided little insight into the specific factors influencing

the quantity of aphrodisiacs consumed by adolescents. Understanding the determinants of

quantity choices, such as perceived dosage effectiveness, perceived side effects, personal

tolerance levels, and instructions for use, would provide insights into the patterns and

motivations behind adolescents' consumption behaviours, and comprehensive understanding

into their decision-making process.

2.6 Contexts, Rational and Practices Associated with Sexual Enhancement

Because of the cultural and social inequalities, sexuality and sexual habits varies from

place to place and in different settings. Despite the great range of sexual habits, particularly

in Sub-Saharan African countries, such acts have long been associated with taboos and

cultural traditions. Several studies conducted in Zimbabwe have found that penetrative

vaginal sex is the most common type of sexual practice, with other forms of sexual practice

considered uncommon. It is likely that homosexual and heterosexual anal relations were

frequent throughout Africa at one time; nevertheless, they have only recently become more

well-known across the continent. A recent study in Kenya showed, among other things, that

more than 40% of female sexual workers in Meru had experience with anal intercourse and

36.1 percent had experience with dry sex. In addition to penile-vaginal intercourse, the survey

discovered that more over 40% of female sexual workers in Meru had previously engaged in

anal sex (Nishijima et al., 2021). According to the available literature on sexuality and

reproductive behaviour among adolescents in the region, there has been no change in risky
 38

sexual behaviours and the negative repercussions of these behaviours, such as unwanted

pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and HIV.

Tanzania has seen an upsurge in condom use over the last decade, with rates climbing

from around 20% to 50%. Despite the passage of time, harmful sexual habits, such as the

reported number of sexual partners in some parts of Tanzania, have remained steady. Other

stated sexual habits of adolescents include age disparities between sexual partners and

heterosexuality, in addition to heterosexuality and sexual compulsion.

Psychoactive chemicals, such as those used for SDU/chemsex, have been shown to

impair users' ability to recognize and respond to hazards during sexual encounters, and they

may lead people to engage in high-risk sexual activities as a result. Studies have repeatedly

found that SDU and chemsex are related with a higher incidence of condomless anal

intercourse (CAI), group sex, and fisting, all of which increase the risk of HIV and other

sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is possible that increased SDU/chemsex among

MSM in Hong Kong will exacerbate the increasing HIV epidemic in this group (6.54 percent

of MSM were HIV-positive in 2017). However, there is a paucity of effective behavioural

therapies for SDU/chemsex that are available (Wang et al., 2020).

A number of factors were shown to be associated with SDU/chemsex among MSM,

including those related to socio-demographics (such as age and ethnicity), socioeconomics

(such as income, education level, and work status), sexual orientation, and use of HIV testing

and other STI prevention programmes. Studies have also revealed that MSM with

SDU/chemsex experience were more likely to receive pre-exposure prophylaxis than those

without such experience (PrEP). These considerations were taken into account in this

investigation. As with SDU perceptions, they play an essential role and must be addressed in

order for theory-based interventions to be successful. It was discovered through qualitative

research that one of the primary reasons MSM engaged in SDU/chemsex was the notion that
 39

psychoactive substances might boost stamina and excitement levels to the point where an

individual could engage in sex for an extended period of time. In addition, the following

reasons were given: overcoming low self-esteem, improving the emotional connection with

sex partners, and managing with stress. MSM were prevented from taking psychoactive

substances before or during sexual intercourse by other social network–related reasons (such

as the fear of losing partners or friends), according to a qualitative study. Among MSM in the

United Kingdom, just one quantitative study found that a perceived lower level of trust in

conducting safe sex regularly was connected with a higher risk of using chemsex on a regular

basis (Wang et al., 2020).

While there has been significant works on some of the reasons why people engage in

risky sexual behaviours, such as low self-esteem, emotional connection with partners, and

stress, more in-depth research is needed to fully understand the complex motivations behind

these behaviours such as exploring the social and cultural factors that contribute to the high

prevalence of risky sexual behaviours in certain populations and how individuals perceive the

risks and benefits of these behaviours. In addition, while the paragraphs provide some

information on the relationship between substance use and risky sexual behaviours, more

research is needed to understand how different types of substances may impact sexual

behaviour and increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections and HIV among

adolescents.

2.7 Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages among Young Adults and Implications on

the Sexual Health

Male sexual enhancement pills can help many men experience a full and active sex

life. However, while these drugs enrich the lives of millions of users, they do host a range of

side effects.
 40

The side effects of male sexual enhancement pills may include: reddening of the face,

persistent headaches, indigestion, vision changes, nasal congestion, back pain. There are

many male enhancement pills on today’s market that are unregulated or have hidden active

ingredients that are withheld from consumers (Mayo Clinic, 2019). For these reasons alone,

these drugs may not be a safe option for everyone as there might be side effects to these male

sexual enhancement pills. After taking male enhancement pills, if one has trouble breathing,

an irregular heartbeat, or an erection lasting longer than four hours, they should seek prompt

medical attention (Mayo Clinic, 2019).

It was noted that prolonged use of male enhancement pills in young men can actually

lead to difficulty in maintaining an erection without the use of these drugs. Other factors that

can cause ED may include: age, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, obesity, diabetes, a

sedentary lifestyle, depression, anxiety (Harte & Meston, 2011).

In addition to the physical symptoms that come with ED, a host of psychological

conditions can manifest as well. Being unable to father a child through sexual intercourse or

engage in physical intimacy can greatly impact a man’s mental health. These emotional

issues may include: reduced interpersonal intimacy, depressive symptoms, anxiety relating to

sexual performance, lowered confidence and self-esteem, body dysmorphic disorder, reduced

sexual interest, listlessness (Althof et al., 2006).

Counterfeited sexual enhancement medications are another issue that puts customers

at danger. It's easy to see why the illicit market is growing so quickly. There's little fear of

arrest, and there might be a substantial cash reward. The humiliation or desire for less priced

solutions may lead some people to try to circumvent the formal healthcare system. On the

other hand, taking illegal enhancement might cause harm to consumers because many of

these products contain toxic contaminants and inappropriate amounts of the active substance

without any warnings whatsoever. (Althof et al., 2006). Going outside the authorised
 41

healthcare system puts men at risk because ED is often associated with other medical

conditions for which patients should be addressed. By going outside the system, men are

putting their health at risk. Sexual enhancement pills may also interact negatively with other

medications, which is rarely discussed when talking about fake medicines. (Althof et al.,

2006).
 42

CHAPTER THREE

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

This study employs two sociological theories with a focus on the intersections among

structures, socialisation, networks of relations, personal experiences, and possible outcomes

among social categories. The first theory is the sexual script, and it addresses cultural forces,

values, beliefs, and practises that dictate and influence sexual values, beliefs, and practises

among and across social categories. The theory provides a framework through which

dominant and marginal sexual scripts that regulate the sexual behaviours of social actors in a

given social setting are formed, interrogated, and transmitted from generation to generation.

The sexual script theory, however, did not account for the variations in practises and the

place of capitals in negotiating sexual relations and handling associated outcomes. As such,

social practise theory was adopted to provide a supplementary framework for this research.

3.1. Sexual Scripting Theory

Sexual Scripting Theory is a psychological framework that seeks to understand how

individuals learn and internalise cultural norms, beliefs, and expectations regarding sexuality

and sexual behaviour. It was first proposed by John Gagnon and William Simon in their 1973

book Sexual Conduct: The Social Sources of Human Sexuality.

According to Sexual Scripting Theory, sexual behaviour is not solely driven by

biological instincts but is heavily influenced by social and cultural factors (Simon and

Gagnon, 2003). Individuals acquire scripts, which are learned patterns of behaviour, through

socialisation processes such as family upbringing, peer interactions, media exposure, and

cultural norms. These scripts shape their understanding of sexual roles, expectations, and

behaviours (White et al., 2023).

Key tenets of the theory include the influence of social and cultural factors on sexual

scripts, the reinforcement of heteronormativity and gender roles, the recognition of variation
 43

and diversity in scripts across cultures and individuals, and the potential for evolution and

change in scripts over time. The theory acknowledges both restrictive and liberating aspects

of scripts, as they can perpetuate inequalities or provide structure and guidance for

consensual interactions. It distinguishes between implicit and explicit scripts and identifies

the diverse contexts in which scripts operate, such as dating, consent, and sexual activities.

Sexual Scripting Theory recognises that individuals may deviate from or experience conflicts

with societal scripts, leading to renegotiation or rejection of existing scripts. The theory also

emphasises the importance of intersectionality, as sexual scripts are influenced by

intersecting social identities like gender, race, and sexual orientation.

Sexual scripts provide a framework for individuals to navigate sexual encounters,

including dating, flirting, initiating and refusing sexual advances, and engaging in sexual

activities. They guide individuals' perceptions of what is considered normal, appropriate, and

expected in sexual situations. These scripts can vary across cultures, subcultures, and

individuals, and they may evolve over time as societal attitudes change.

The theory recognises that scripts can be both restrictive and liberating. On one hand,

scripts can reinforce gender stereotypes, power imbalances, and heteronormative

expectations. They can contribute to societal problems such as gender inequality, sexual

coercion, and discrimination against non-normative sexualities. On the other hand, scripts can

also provide a sense of structure, guidance, and predictability in sexual interactions, which

can enhance pleasure and intimacy when shared consensually.

Critics of the theory argue that it oversimplifies the complexities of sexual behaviour

by focusing primarily on societal influences and neglecting individual agency, personal

preferences, and variations in human sexuality (Mayer & McHugh, 2016). They argue that

the theory fails to adequately address the diversity of sexual experiences and the role of

personal desires and emotions in shaping sexual behaviour.

 44

Nevertheless, sexual scripting theory has been influential in highlighting the social

and cultural dimensions of human sexuality. It has contributed to the understanding of how

societal norms and expectations impact individuals' sexual lives, and it has been used to

explore issues such as sexual consent, sexual violence, sexual orientation, and the negotiation

of sexual desires within interpersonal relationships.

3.2 Social Practice Theory

Sociologists share a major concern around understanding the intersections between

agency and structures. Among other issues, there are views that agency supersedes structures,

while structures are considered by some to be more superior. These contradicting views and

positions are crucial in the sociological analysis of behaviour and practises within social

groups in a given social setting. Practice theories, according to Schatzki (1996), present a

perspective that is neither individualistic nor holistic, and they take into account interactions

between knowing and capable individuals and social structures such as technology,

infrastructure, and institutions. For many years, the concept of a practise has been a topic of

disagreement among practitioners and academics alike (Reckwitz, 2004; Schatzki, 1996).

According to the American Psychological Association, a practise is a routinized type of

behaviour that consists of several elements that are interconnected to one another: forms of

bodily activities, forms of mental activities, things and their use, background knowledge in

the form of understanding, know-how, states of emotion, and motivational knowledge

(Reckwitz, 2004).

From the perspective of Pierre Bourdieu, a prominent sociologist, social practise

theories can be understood through the lens of his theoretical framework, which includes

concepts such as habitus, field, and capital. Bourdieu's ideas provide insights into the social

and cultural dimensions of practises and their relationship with social structures and

inequalities.
 45

Bourdieu argues that individuals' practises are shaped by their habitus, which refers to

a set of dispositions, embodied experiences, and internalised social structures that guide their

behaviours and perceptions. The habitus is formed through socialisation processes and

reflects the individual's position within social hierarchies. It influences individuals'

preferences, tastes, and behaviours and shapes their engagement with different social

practises.

Bourdieu also introduces the concept of fields, which are social arenas characterised

by specific rules, norms, and power relations. Fields encompass various domains such as

education, the arts, politics, and economics. Within each field, individuals compete for

resources and recognition, and practises are shaped by the field-specific logics and structures.

Different fields have their own sets of practises, values, and forms of capital.

Capital, in Bourdieu's framework, goes beyond economic capital and encompasses

various forms of resources that individuals can possess and deploy within social contexts.

These include social capital (networks and relationships), cultural capital (knowledge,

education, and cultural competencies), and symbolic capital (prestige and recognition). The

possession of different forms of capital influences an individual's access to and success in

specific fields and practises.

Bourdieu's perspective highlights the role of social structures and power dynamics in

shaping practises. Practises are not seen as solely individual choices but as responses to and

reproductions of existing social structures and inequalities. The distribution of capital within

a society influences individuals' abilities to engage in certain practises, gain recognition, and

navigate different fields.

Furthermore, Bourdieu emphasises the concept of symbolic violence, which refers to

the power dynamics that enforce dominant practises and beliefs as natural and legitimate,

thus marginalising alternative practises. Symbolic violence operates through the

 46

internalisation of norms and values, shaping individuals' habits and limiting their choices and

opportunities within specific fields and practises.

By considering Bourdieu's framework, social practise theories gain a sociological

perspective that highlights the interplay between habitus, fields, and capital. This perspective

recognises the influence of social structures, power relations, and inequalities on the shaping

of practises, as well as the ways in which individuals' positions within these structures

influence their engagement with and access to different practises. It provides a nuanced

understanding of how social structures and inequalities intersect with practises and offers

insights into the reproduction and potential transformation of social systems.

3.3 Application of the Theories to the Study

According to the Sexual Scripting Theory, cultural scripts and societal expectations

regarding masculinity, performance, and sexual pleasure have an impact on ideas about

sexual enhancement and the consumption of beverages with aphrodisiac claims among

heterosexual male undergraduates.

Sexual scripting theory posits that individuals acquire scripts, learned patterns of

behaviour, through socialisation processes that shape their understanding of sexual roles,

expectations, and behaviours. Cultural norms and media representations play a significant

role in shaping these scripts, including notions of sexual enhancement and the pursuit of

aphrodisiacs.

In the case of heterosexual male undergraduates, societal expectations often place

emphasis on masculinity, sexual prowess, and performance. There may be pressure to

conform to societal ideals of being sexually active, assertive, and satisfying one's partner.

These expectations can create anxieties around sexual performance and desires for

enhancements that are perceived to improve sexual experiences.

 47

These scripts may have influenced the practise of consuming beverages with

aphrodisiac claims. Aphrodisiacs are substances believed to enhance sexual desire,

performance, or pleasure. While scientific evidence for the effectiveness of most aphrodisiacs

is limited, cultural beliefs and media representations often promote their use as a means of

achieving heightened sexual experiences.

Among heterosexual male undergraduates, the consumption of beverages with

aphrodisiac claims may serve multiple functions. It can be a way to align with societal

expectations of masculinity and sexual prowess, signalling confidence and performance

ability. It can also be a means of addressing anxieties or insecurities related to sexual

performance by seeking perceived enhancements.

It is crucial to keep in mind that a variety of factors, such as individual differences,

peer pressure, marketing tactics, and personal beliefs, can affect how often people consume

these beverages. Some individuals may reject or question these claims, while others may

engage in the behaviour as a form of experimentation, peer bonding, or adherence to cultural

scripts.

It is worth considering the restrictive and liberating aspects of sexual scripting in this

context. While the pursuit of sexual enhancement may provide a sense of agency and

empowerment, it can also perpetuate societal pressures, gender norms, and expectations that

may lead to anxieties, insecurities, and objectification of both oneself and others.

Applying social practise theories to explain notions of consumption of beverages with

aphrodisiac claims among heterosexual male undergraduates involves analysing the practises,

routines, and social interactions surrounding these behaviours. This approach explains how

social norms, cultural meanings, and institutional influences shape individuals' engagement

with sexual enhancement and the consumption of aphrodisiac beverages.

 48

Practise-oriented approach: social practise Theories shift the focus from individual

behaviours to the practises themselves. In this context, practises include the behaviours,

rituals, and routines related to sexual enhancement and the consumption of aphrodisiac

beverages among heterosexual male undergraduates. These practises can involve actions such

as purchasing aphrodisiac beverages, consuming them before sexual encounters, and

discussing their effects with peers.

Materiality: Social practise theories recognise the material aspects of practises. In the case of

sexual enhancement, the materiality involves the actual aphrodisiac beverages, which are

seen as physical objects with specific properties believed to enhance sexual performance or

desire. Materiality also extends to the packaging, labelling, and marketing of these products,

which play a role in shaping individuals' perceptions and expectations.

Sociocultural context: Social norms and cultural meanings surrounding masculinity, sexual

prowess, and performance expectations have an impact on the practises of sexual

enhancement and consuming aphrodisiac beverages. Heterosexual male undergraduates may

engage in these practises as a means of conforming to societal expectations of virility and

sexual potency and satisfying their partners. Cultural beliefs and norms that emphasise male

sexual prowess and reproductive success contribute to the social context in which these

practises occur.

Social reproduction and change: social practise Theories highlight how practises contribute to

the reproduction or transformation of social structures. In the case of sexual enhancement

practises, engaging in behaviours that are believed to enhance sexual performance aligns with

existing social norms and expectations of masculinity. However, these practises can also

challenge traditional notions of masculinity by encouraging men to seek external aids for

sexual enhancement, potentially leading to shifts in attitudes and behaviours surrounding

sexuality.
 49

Interconnectedness of practises: Social practise theories recognise that practises are

interconnected within broader networks and systems. The practises of sexual enhancement

and consuming aphrodisiac beverages are not isolated but are influenced by other related

practises, such as discussions among peers, exposure to media representations of masculinity

and sexual enhancement, and cultural beliefs about sexual performance. Changes in one

practise, such as the consumption of aphrodisiac beverages, can influence and be influenced

by other practises, creating a complex web of social interactions and meanings.

Applying social practise theories helps us understand that notions of sexual

enhancement and the consumption of aphrodisiac beverages among heterosexual male

undergraduates are not solely individual choices but are shaped by social and cultural factors.

These practises are influenced by broader social norms, cultural expectations, and

institutional influences related to masculinity and sexual performance. By examining the

practises and the social context in which they occur, we gain insights into how these

behaviours are shaped, reproduced, or challenged within society.

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3.4 Theoretical Framework

 51

The theoretical framework consists of intersections of structural, relationships and

individual factors that provide unique insights into societal expectations, masculinity, notions

of sexual enhancement, aphrodisiac consumption, and individual experiences in heterosexual

relationships. One component focuses on societal expectations and masculinity, highlighting

the pressures individuals face to conform to social norms regarding sexual activity,

assertiveness, and partner satisfaction. These expectations revolve around ideals of virility,

sexual potency, and the fulfilment of traditional masculine roles and reproductive success.

Another component explores notions of sexual enhancement and aphrodisiac

consumption. Cultural scripts and societal expectations shape individuals' desires for

enhancements that are believed to improve sexual experiences and performance. Anxieties or

insecurities related to sexual performance may drive individuals to seek perceived

enhancements through the consumption of aphrodisiacs. Cultural beliefs and media

representations often promote the use of aphrodisiacs as a means of achieving heightened

sexual experiences.

The materiality component recognizes the physical aspects of aphrodisiac beverages,

including their composition, packaging, labelling, and marketing. These physical attributes

contribute to the properties attributed to these beverages, which are believed to enhance

sexual performance or desire. The packaging, labelling, and marketing strategies play a

significant role in shaping individuals' perceptions and expectations regarding the

effectiveness of these products.

The socio-cultural context component explores the broader social norms, cultural

meanings, and institutional influences that shape individuals' engagement with sexual

enhancement and the consumption of aphrodisiac beverages. It encompasses societal

expectations of masculinity, cultural beliefs and values surrounding sexual pleasure and
 52

performance, media representations that influence perceptions, and the overall social context

in which these practices occur.

The practice-oriented approach highlights the importance of focusing on the practices

themselves rather than individual behaviours. It involves examining the behaviours, rituals,

and routines related to sexual enhancement and aphrodisiac consumption, such as purchasing

aphrodisiac beverages, consuming them before sexual encounters, and discussing their effects

with peers. This approach provides a deeper understanding of the social dynamics and

influences at play.

The social reproduction and change component emphasizes how these practices

contribute to the reproduction or transformation of social structures. Engaging in behaviours

believed to enhance sexual performance aligns with existing social norms and expectations of

masculinity. However, these practices can also challenge traditional notions of masculinity by

encouraging men to seek external aids for sexual enhancement, potentially leading to shifts in

attitudes and behaviours surrounding sexuality.

The interconnectedness of practices component highlights how practices are

intertwined within broader networks and systems. The consumption of aphrodisiac beverages

and notions of sexual enhancement are influenced by various factors, including discussions

among peers, exposure to media representations of masculinity and sexual enhancement, and

cultural beliefs about sexual performance. Changes in one practice, such as the consumption

of aphrodisiac beverages, can have ripple effects on other practices, creating a complex web

of social interactions and meanings.

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CHAPTER FOUR

METHODOLOGY

This chapter provides the methodology employed in the study. It specifically

discusses the study location, research design, population and sample size, sampling

technique, method of data collection, data analysis and management which were adopted for

this study. This chapter begins with a description of the research design, the study locations

and population. The sub-themes that follow covers the type of sampling design and the

procedures of sampling selection, and the sampling size used in the study. The rationale

behind the choice of sampling design is also presented in this section. The procedure is

organized and presented in a sequential approach as informed by the research design. The

latter part of the chapter presents the research instruments, data analysis strategies, ethical

considerations, logical framework and challenges that were encountered.

4.1 Research Design

The research design adopted for this study is concurrent mixed method research

design to investigate the conceptions, consumptions, factors and the notions surrounding

sexual enhancement and the use of beverages with aphrodisiacs claims among heterosexual

male undergraduate students. The data collection procedure involves the adoption of both

qualitative and quantitative approaches to data collection at the same time or in parallel

manner in a single study (Noyes et al., 2019). A key rationale for adopting this research

design is that the adoption of a single methodology in a research study will only generate

findings and results that are skewed towards a singular direction thereby eroding the benefits

and strengths that are inherent in other approaches. By adopting a mixed approach, it

becomes feasible to supplement the findings of one method by examining evidence gathered

by the other method. The priority of data collection is preferably equal; however, it might

either be one method after the other. Triangulation of results or findings then becomes
 54

possible as divergent and convergent positions are observable and utilised in ensuring more

robust understanding of the reality under investigation (Adams et al., 2015).

The concurrent mixed method approach was used for this study. The appropriateness

of this method is that it allows for the collection of in-depth and robust information, as well

as meaningful insights into the perspectives of youth on issues surrounding the use of sexual

enhancement practices either as a stimulant for sexual activities or as a means of asserting

their hegemonic masculinity. Also, to have an understanding on the notions of responsible

consumption of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages with aphrodisiac claims among

heterosexual male undergraduate students. The evidence from the qualitative and quantitative

phases of this research are triangulated to achieve a wider sense of these issues among the

study population.

4.2 Study Location

The study was carried out in Osun state, Western Nigeria. Osun state was formed in

1991 when the eastern part of Oyo state was divided in half. It is bordered on the northeast by

Kwara and Ekiti states, on the east by Ondo and Ekiti states, on the south by Ogun state, and

on the west and northwest by Oyo state. The Yoruba Hills are a mountain range that runs

through the northern part of Osun state. A tropical rain forest covers much of the state, with

the Osun Watercourse serving as its most important river. The Yoruba people constitute the

majority of the population of Osun state.

The agriculture sector makes up the majority of the economy in Osun. The country's

main crops are yams, cassava (manioc), corn (maize), beans, millet, plantains, cocoa, palm oil

and kernels, and fruits. Small-scale cottage companies create brass work, woven linens, and

wood carvings. Osogbo, the state capital, has a textile industry, a food processing factory, and

a steel rolling mill, among other things. Among the state's tourist attractions are the Mbari

Arts Centre in Osogbo, the home castles of Yoruba monarchs at Ilesha and Ile-Ife, and the
 55

Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, a forest that houses different shrines and artwork in honour of

the Yoruba deity Osun (designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2005). Osogbo is

connected by road and rail to Ibadan, the capital of Oyo state. The population was 3,423,535

in 2006.

One notable feature of aphrodisiacs in Osun State is their availability in the nooks and

crannies of the state. These aphrodisiacs can be found in local markets, roadside stalls, and

traditional medicine shops. They are often sold openly and without restriction, and their use is

deeply ingrained in the local culture.

Locally made aphrodisiacs in Osun State are typically derived from natural

ingredients such as herbs, and roots. These ingredients are believed to possess aphrodisiac

properties and are often mixed together to create a potent concoction. Some commonly used

herbs and roots include Carpolobia lutea, and yohimbe plants are used in some traditional

aphrodisiac recipes. Foreign aphrodisiacs, on the other hand, are often imported from other

countries and may include products such as concoctions, supplements, pills, creams, and oils.

These foreign aphrodisiacs are often marketed with claims of enhancing sexual performance,

increasing libido, and improving sexual stamina. Some popular foreign aphrodisiac brands in

Osun State include Viagra, Adonko Bitters, Alomo Bitters, Cialis, and various herbal

supplements from other African and Asian countries.

In Osun State, just like other locations with similar characteristics (Amoah et al.,

2022), where both young and old people have a tendency to utilise aphrodisiacs for sexual

purposes. Some of the reasons to have contributed to the increased use of aphrodisiacs are

first, cultural beliefs are significant since they have been passed down through generations,

along with practises and beliefs regarding aphrodisiacs. It is believed in some quarters that

aphrodisiacs can help with sexual difficulties, fertility, and sexual delight. Second, the people

of Osun State have easy access to aphrodisiacs due to their widespread availability. Local
 56

markets and traditional medicine shops often stock a wide range of aphrodisiac products, and

the marketing and sale of these products are often done openly without regulation. This

makes it convenient for people to purchase aphrodisiacs and try them out. Lastly, the

influence of modern media and globalization has also contributed to the high patronage of

aphrodisiacs in Osun State. The marketing and advertising of foreign aphrodisiac products

through various channels, including social media, television, and the internet, have created a

demand for these products among the population. Many people are influenced by these

advertisements and seek out foreign aphrodisiacs as they are often perceived as more modern

and effective.

The state is not lagging behind when it comes to providing quality education for its

residents; in fact, one of the country's top colleges is located in the state. The characteristics

of the public universities in the state are listed in the table below:

Table 4.1 Characteristics of Universities in Osun State

Year Population of
Name
Established Students
Federal owned
Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife 1962 35,000+
Public
State owned
Osun State University, Osogbo 2006 10000+

4.2.1 Study Sites

Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), which is a public institution, is owned and

supported by the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN). Students at Obafemi Awolowo

University can pick from a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in areas

such as humanities, arts, science, and engineering, as well as other disciplines. Programmes

in the social sciences are also available as alternatives. Located within the university's
 57

thirteen faculties, the Postgraduate College and the College of Health Sciences are both

institutions of higher learning. Since the establishment of OAU, 82 departments have sprung

up, each offering a diverse selection of courses to choose from. The institution has a total of

35,000 students registered in it. An important reason why the institution was chosen as a

study location is because of the ease with which a considerable number of students who are

classified as youth under the Africa Charter on Youth can conveniently access it (UNFPA,

2021).

University of Osun, Osogbo

Osun state university is a multi-campus university founded by the Osun State

Government and led by Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola. The university currently runs six

campuses spread over the state's six administrative/geopolitical zones. On December 21,

2006, Nigeria's National Universities Commission approved Osun State University as the

30th State University and the 80th in the Nigerian university system. It has campuses at

Osogbo, Ikire, Okuku, Ifetedo, Ipetu Ijesha, and Ejigbo that function as health science,

humanities and culture, social science and management, law, education, and agriculture

campuses, respectively. Under the leadership of state Governor Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola,

Osun State University held its inaugural convocation event in 2011. Until the 2013 ASUU

strike, which lasted more than five months, the university had a reputation for not

participating in the nationwide ASUU strike. The institution also has a reputation for being

one of the fastest universities in Nigeria, owing to the school's short academic calendar. The

school was also chosen as the third location of study due to its access to a large number of

pupils and to boost the representative element of the student population covered.

Heterosexual relationships among students in these two universities are common and

are influenced by factors such as dating opportunities, multiple sexual relationships, private

hostels for cohabitation, accommodation challenges, and access to media and other sources of
 58

information. Research and media reports suggest that dating opportunities are prevalent

among students, facilitated by social interactions within the campus community such as

attending classes together, participating in extracurricular activities, or socializing in common

areas (Sarafadeen Ganiyu, 2019; Omisore et al., 2021). Multiple sexual relationships are also

reported among some students, influenced by factors such as peer pressure, cultural norms,

and individual choices (Omisore et al., 2021).

Private hostels for cohabitation are common among students in Osun State

universities, offering more freedom and privacy compared to university-owned hostels.

Limited access to affordable and safe accommodation options may force students to share

rooms or cohabit with partners to reduce costs, leading to increased heterosexual

relationships. Media, including social media platforms and online dating apps, can facilitate

interactions and connections among students, providing opportunities for meeting and

forming relationships, as well as accessing information about dating, relationships, and sexual

health. However, media can also perpetuate unrealistic expectations about relationships and

promote harmful behaviours such as casual sex and hook-up culture. These factors provide

insights into the dynamics of heterosexual relationships among students within the study

location.

4.3. Study Population

The study population consist of heterosexually active male undergraduates at both

institutions. According to the available data, the population size of undergraduates from

Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) and University of Osun State (UNIOSUN) is 30,000

students (OAU About Us, 2022).

It is important to highlight that early sexual experiences among undergraduates are

influenced by a variety of factors, including cultural, societal, and individual factors. Sexual

activity among undergraduates is a delicate and complex matter in Nigeria, as it is in many

 59

other nations. For instance, Alabi et al. (2020) found that students who attended private

secondary schools were more likely to have early sexual debut than those who attended

public schools. They also found that females were less likely to have consensual sexual debut

than males, and that early sexual debut increased the likelihood of having multiple sexual

partners. Similarly, Odii et al. (2020) reported that the quality of sex education by parents

during early adolescence affected the sexual behaviour of undergraduate students.

The undergraduate students are important to this study because they are sexually

active (Omoteso, 2006) and are likely to experiment with various sexual fantasies using

various forms and enchantments available in the markets. And while in school, they socialize

and build relationships with others. Therefore, the study aim explores the role alcoholic and

non-alcoholic beverages with aphrodisiacs claims as a sexual enhancer is playing in their

construction of masculinity.

4.4 Sampling Design and Procedure

The overall sampling design was guided by a multi-stage purposive sampling

approach. This approach involves the non-probabilistic selection of participants based on

their homogeneity of characteristics. In this technique, samples are selected from the

sampling population based on their shared set of characteristics (Palinkas et al., 2015).

The approach ensures that appropriate respondents that meets the study inclusion

criteria are targeted and recruited for participation. In this research, only males that are

undergraduates are targeted for participation.

The first stage involved identifying active social media platforms (where

undergraduates meet and share information bordering on academic matters among

themselves. Social media platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp are popular and have been

actively deployed among students and organisations for information sharing and interactions

in diverse forms. These platforms provide sampling frames through which active students
 60

that are enrolled in different courses on both universities can be targeted for participation.

Existing platforms for such meetings are managed by administrators, among which class or

course representatives are among such administrators. There are general and specific courses

offered by students from first (100 Level) year to final (400/500 Levels) year in both

universities.

A list of general courses that are offered by undergraduates in both universities was

compiled. A student taking these courses were targeted for contact details of their course or

class representatives. Contacts were made to the class representatives of these general

courses in both universities for a comprehensive list of members. The class representatives

served as the gate-keeper to the members and were approached for support and information

on the research. Contacted class representatives were briefed and encouraged to ask questions

about the research. These platforms were selected to be the means of sharing the research

instruments across to the targeted audience.

The table below presents the information the various social media platforms engaged

for the sharing of the questionnaire to the targeted audience across the two universities.

Table 4.2 List of Social Media Platforms

Platform Class No. of Group Name No. of Group

Level Departments Participants
Obafemi Awolowo University
WhatsApp 500 8 General Class Group 230

WhatsApp 400 8 General Class Group 720

WhatsApp 300 8 General Class Group 156

WhatsApp 200 5 General Class Group

Telegram 100 1 SSC 101 Class 2103

Group
Osun State University
WhatsApp 400 4 General Class Group 413
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WhatsApp 300 4 General Class Group 120

WhatsApp 200 4 General Class Group 121
Telegram 100 1 General Class Group 56
 62

The Quantitative Strand

Sampling Procedure and Sampling Size

From the lists of WhatsApp and Telegram groups, information on research, contact

details of the researcher and supervisor, a screening questionnaire plus an informed consent

forms were shared on each of the selected platforms across levels in both universities.

The initial phase in the sample technique was to define the target population, which is

composed of male undergraduate students, and the eligibility condition was to be a male

undergraduate student enrolled in any of the two universities' departments at the time of

survey. Before contacting the class representatives of each of the departments and class levels

chosen at random, ethical authorization was obtained from the Institute of Public Health,

Obafemi Awolowo University. These class representatives functioned as the gatekeepers to

the target audience in their respective levels. Once contact was established, a brief description

of the study, its objective, and what was expected of the participants was shared with the

class by representatives who, in most cases, were administrators of the class group accounts

on both WhatsApp and Telegram platforms. The informed consent for the study participants

was programmed alongside the electronic questionnaire using Google Form. It comes before

the questionnaire so that participants can give their consent before filling out the

questionnaire. Finally, the questionnaire was share with the class representatives who in turn

shared it with the participants on their various class groups on WhatsApp and Telegram

platforms.

Sampling Size

In 2021 academic session, the population of male undergraduates at the Obafemi

Awolowo University was above 5,000, while that of Osun State University was about 3,500.

N
Based on a cluster sampling technique, Slovin’s formular n= was used to
1+ ( N × e2 )
 63

determine the sample size. A proportionate sample of 420 respondents was sampled from the

sampling frame of over 8,500 undergraduates.

Based on the population of male undergraduates at Obafemi Awolowo University in

the 2021 academic session which was above 5,000. To obtain a sample from this population,

a cluster sampling technique was used. This involved dividing the population into smaller

groups or clusters based on their faculties. A proportionate sample of 252 respondents was

N
then selected from the clusters using Slovin's formula. The formula n= was used
1+ ( N × e2 )

to determine the sample size, where N represents the population size and e represents the

margin of error. The population of male undergraduates at Osun State University in the 2021

academic session was about 3,500. Similar to Obafemi Awolowo University, a cluster

sampling technique was used to obtain a sample from this population. The population was

divided into clusters based on faculties. A proportionate sample of 168 respondents was then

selected from the clusters using Slovin's formula. The reason for using a cluster sampling

technique is that it can be more efficient than simple random sampling, it can help to reduce

sampling error and improve the representativeness of the sample, particularly when the

population is large and spread out across different groups.

Slovin's formula is commonly used to determine the appropriate sample size for a

given population, particularly when the population size is large and a simple random

sampling technique is not feasible or practical (Singh & Masuku, 2014). The formula takes

into account the size of the population, as well as the desired level of precision or margin of

error. By using Slovin's formula, it was possible to calculate the appropriate sample size

required to obtain a representative sample of male undergraduates from both Obafemi

Awolowo University and Osun State University. This approach helped to ensure that the

sample size is neither too small nor too large, which can improve the accuracy and

generalizability of the study findings.

64
 65

The Qualitative Strand

Sampling procedure and Sample size

The objective of this qualitative phase is to explore the reality of the relationships

between sexual enhancement practices and masculinity from the perspective of young people,

and to explore the interpretations of the sexual enhancement practices in relation to how

masculinity is presented in various medium which promotes the use of products with

aphrodisiac claims. The idea of gradual selection of participants guided the recruitment of

participants for the qualitative phase of this research. The strategy facilitated the possibility of

recruiting participants in relation to the desired characteristics, experiences and views that

can provide valid responses to the research questions.

Eligibility of participants for this phase included being sexually active, reported

involvement in heterosexual relations and current student status as an undergraduate in either

institution. As such, two different but interconnected strategies were adopted in recruiting

eligible participants for the focus group discussion and individual interviews at the study

sites. Participants in the group discussions were targeted among eligible participants in the

survey. Announcements were made on the selected platforms that eligible participants could

opt to participate in both the survey and the qualitative phase or just a phase. Eligible and

willing participants were requested to indicate their willingness and fill a screening

questionnaire which consisted of information about their gender(males), current relationship

status and recent heterosexual activity. Only candidates with responses that aligns with the

eligibility criteria were invited for participation.

Eligible participants were further requested to supply possible dates and locations that

could be considered for the group discussions. All responses were collated and shared with

the eligible participants after which they were invited for the group discussions.
 66

Recruitment of participants for the individual interviews took a slightly different

dimension. Interviewees were drawn from the pool of respondents that participated in the

survey. Each eligible interviewee was asked to respond to a question soliciting their

willingness to share their lived experiences with the consumption of the beverages for sexual

purposes. Eligible and willing interviewees were informed through the survey that such

interviews would be conducted via mobile phone. As such, all willing interviewees were

asked to provide their mobile numbers and preferred time and day for such interview.

Sampling Size

There are different opinions on what is theoretically desirable and practically feasible

when making a decision on the sample size for qualitative studies (Gues et al., 2006). There

are traditions that informs the sample size of a qualitative research, such as, for qualitative

studies using FGD as a method of data collection, Krueger and Casey (2009) suggested an

average of six to nine participants, whereas Morgan (1997) prescribed a minimum of 12

participants per FGD session.

A total of 22 eligible males were invited out of which 16 showed up for the

discussions at preferred locations in Osun State university. At the Obafemi Awolowo

University, a total of 36 eligible males were invited out of which 23 showed for the

discussions at preferred locations on the university’s campus and in preferred locations in Ile-

Ife town. A total of 6 FGDs with 39 participants were conducted at both universities.

Participants in the sessions were relatively heterogenous from year of admissions and

faculties of affiliations in the universities. Conscious efforts were made to ensure a mix of

participants in all the sessions across the two study sites.

The sample size for the individual interview was also determined purposively. Based

on the aim of this component and the sensitivity of the questions, this approach was
 67

considered suitable and with an objective to explore the perceptions of the interviewees, a

small sample size was considered adequate and relevant for this component of the study.

Data Collection and Research instruments

The Quantitative Phase

The research instrument was a semi-structured questionnaire with both open and

close-ended questions. This type of questionnaire was adopted because it allows the

researchers to collect both quantitative and qualitative data, which can provide a more

comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon under investigation. The questionnaire was

designed to capture both closed-ended questions that can be analysed using statistical

methods and open-ended questions that allow participants to provide detailed, nuanced

responses. Also, it was intended to design a questionnaire that is tailored specifically to the

research questions and objectives of the study. It was essential to capture socio-demographic

information as well as information related to participants' perceptions and experiences with

aphrodisiac consumption. By designing a questionnaire for the study, it ensured that the

questions were relevant, specific, and appropriate for the study population.

The use of an existing questionnaire was deemed not appropriate for this study, as

there was no existing questionnaire that captured the specific research questions and

objectives of the study. Adapting or adopting an existing questionnaire could also have

resulted in measurement error or bias, as the existing questionnaire may not have been

validated or appropriate for the study population.

The questionnaire was designed to introduce the eligible class members to the

research and also capture socio-demographic information such as their relationship status,

gender, sexual orientation, their perceived concept of sexual performance and enhancement,

mixture and quantity of aphrodisiac contents consumed, factors influencing the choice of
 68

beverages consumed, active mobile number, and consent to participate in the qualitative part

of the research.

The questions were drafted, typed, and programmed into electronic format using

Google Form which is easier and accessible to use. The link to the Google form was shared

with the Class representative (who are the gate-keepers and administrators to the class social

media platforms) to share with the class members on their class group pages. Successful and

valid questionnaire were downloaded from the Google Form dashboard into Microsoft Excel

spreadsheet format.

An important challenged worthy of note was the unwillingness of respondents to fill

out the questionnaire through the link shared on their various social media platforms. There

was a low response from the eligible participants, as responses can be monitored on the

Google Form dashboard. After 6 months of consistent sharing of the link on those platforms,

repeated efforts were made through the class and course representatives to remind potential

respondents to participate in the study. After these repeated reminders, the response rates

improved from the 203 responses received so far to 412 responses. Proper care was taken to

avoid double responses from respondents as the emails of eligible respondents was only

allowed once to fill a questionnaire. All the filled questionnaires in the Google form were

downloaded in Microsoft Excel spreadsheet form for checking and cleaning. A thorough data

cleaning was done to sieve out the ineligible and incomplete responses. The cleaned dataset

was analysed using IBM Statistic Package for Social Scientist version 26 for data

management and analysis.

All data collected were shared only with the supervisor for quality verification,

afterwards, all data set were stored in a passworded computer system for safekeeping which

only the researcher have access.

The Qualitative Phase

 69

A total of 20 eligible interviewees indicated their willingness to be interviewed. Eight

(8) out of this number were undergraduates at Osun State University, while the remainder

were undergraduates at the Obafemi Awolowo University. Efforts were made to reach out to

all the eligible participants and 12 in total responded and participated in the interviews.

All the interviews were done through mobile phone calls to minimise Interviewee

influence. This approach created a sense of privacy and confidence for the interviewees to

relay their personal experiences. The approach also influenced the response rates as 12

interviewees participated out of 20 that indicated their willingness.

This method of conducting interviews through mobile phone calls has proved to be an

efficient method because it minimized Interviewee’s influence and create a sense of privacy

and confidence for the interviewees. This approach was chosen because it is a widely used

method in social research that has been found to be effective in ensuring confidentiality and

increasing response rates (Shih & Fan, 2008; Berinsky et al., 2012). Mobile phone interviews

have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their convenience and accessibility

(Lavrakas, 2007). They offer a cost-effective and time-efficient way to collect data from a

large and diverse sample, especially when face-to-face interviews or other methods of data

collection are not feasible (Barnes et al., 2005).

One advantage of mobile phone interviews is that they provide a greater level of

anonymity and confidentiality for the respondents, which can increase their willingness to

participate and disclose sensitive information (Shih & Fan, 2008). This was particularly

important in this study as it involved sensitive topics that may have been difficult for

participants to discuss in a face-to-face setting. Another advantage of mobile phone

interviews is that they can increase the response rate by making it easier for participants to

participate, especially when they are geographically dispersed (Berinsky et al., 2012). This
 70

was evident in this study, where 12 out of 20 participants who had indicated their willingness

to participate actually took part in the study.

Pre-test and Validity of Instrument

The Quantitative Phase

For the pre-test of the questionnaire developed for the study, Google Forms was

utilized as an efficient tool for data collection. A questionnaire was developed based on the

study objectives, ensuring that it addressed the key research questions and gathered relevant

data on sexual health and aphrodisiac use. The questionnaire was structured with clear and

concise questions, including both closed-ended and open-ended items to gather quantitative

and qualitative data, respectively. Ethical considerations were taken into account, including

participant anonymity, confidentiality, and informed consent. The questionnaire was pilot-

tested with a small group of participants from a similar population to identify and address any

issues related to clarity, wording, or response options.

The questionnaire was distributed to the target population through social media

platforms, including WhatsApp, Telegram, and Facebook. An introductory message

explaining the study's purpose and the questionnaire's importance was crafted. The link to the

Google Forms questionnaire was shared with the target population through the social media

platforms. Participants were encouraged to complete the questionnaire voluntarily and

provide informed consent when applicable. A deadline was set for data collection, allowing

participants sufficient time to respond. Throughout the data collection period, responses were

monitored, and any participant queries or concerns were promptly addressed.

The Qualitative Phase

Data were collected through the use of FGD and IDI question guides, and it was a

voluntary participation by all participants. The FGD and IDI guides include pertinent
 71

questions to the objectives of the study, it also includes thought provoking questions relating

to the objectives of the study in other to stimulate the participants to give more relevant and

authoritative information on the subject matter. Each section was targeted not to exceed 45

minutes in length in other not make it boring and tiresome to the participants and then lose

interest in the session.

Water or soft drinks were offered to the participants for relaxation during the sessions.

All discussions during each session were recorded using an audio recorder device for easy

capture of all information shared by participants. The recordings were done with the approval

of all the participants.

Data Analysis and Management

The Quantitative Data

After the data collection period concluded, the data from Google Forms were

exported into a suitable format, such as CSV or Excel. Quantitative data analysis such as

frequencies and percentages, multinomial logistic regression, and other analytical methods

depending on the types of questions and data collected. Appropriate statistical techniques and

thematic analysis were applied to derive meaningful insights and address the research

objectives.

The Qualitative Data

Data were collected through the use of FGD and semi-structured interview question

guides, and it was a voluntary participation by all participants. The FGD and semi-structured

interview guides include pertinent questions to the objectives of the study, it also includes

thought provoking questions relating to the objectives of the study in other to stimulate the

participants to give more relevant and authoritative information on the subject matter. Each

section was targeted not to exceed 45 minutes in length in other not make it boring and

tiresome to the participants and then lose interest in the session. Each recording was
 72

transcribed verbatim except where important alteration was needed for coding and analysis

using ATLAS.ti 22 qualitative analytical software.

A coding book was created to represent the main themes, concepts, and ideas in the

data. A deductive approach was adopted in analysing the instruments, using pre-generated

codes from the research instruments. The code book was developed in Microsoft Excel before

being imported into ATLAS.ti along with the transcripts, ensuring its comprehensiveness and

clarity. The data were then manually coded based on the codes in the book, avoiding any

potential errors from automatic coding.

After coding the data, the analysis was conducted using various tools provided by

ATLAS.ti. These tools allowed for exploration, comparison, and visualization of the data,

such as code frequency tables, code co-occurrence tables, word clouds, and network views.

Network views, in particular, revealed relationships between concepts through codes and

quotations from responses. The findings were interpreted by synthesizing the results from the

analysis and drawing conclusions aligned with the research objectives. The combination of

both thematic and content analysis approach was employed, involving the identification of

patterns in the meaning of the data to uncover themes. The findings were presented concisely

and supported by quotes from the data.

4.5 Data Management and Quality Assurance

Data management was ensured by checking the completeness of both the quantitative

and qualitative data provided by the participants in the study, and were kept safe. No personal

and delicate information relating to the participants of the study was disclosed to anyone. It

was ensured that the interview questions are related to the research questions and objectives

of the study. Collected data were kept confidential by transferring the recorded interviews

from the digital recorder to a passworded computer system to ensure confidentiality. Also,

the validity and reliability of the data were ensured.

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4.6 Ethical Consideration

Ethical clearance for the study was sought from the Institute of Public Health,

Obafemi Awolowo University for ethical consideration and approval to carry out the study

due to the personal and sensitive information about the respondents the study is probing. All

interviewees were given the opportunity to decline to participate. Participants were informed

in advance of the interview parts, and that anyone who desires to withdraw from the

interview will be able to do so without incurring any penalties. All participants in this study

were afforded all of their rights, including the right to know all of the specifics of the

research, the right to participate without being coerced, and the freedom to withdraw from the

research at any moment without incurring any penalties or consequences. When participants'

opinions and experiences were shared, it was ensured that they remain anonymous and

confidential. All of the respondents were fully informed about the type of information that

will be collected from them by the researcher.

4.7 Logical Framework

Table 4.3 Logical Framework

S/N Objective Target source of Sampling Method of Instrument Method of

information Technique Data Data
Collection Analysis
1. Explore heterosexual male Students of higher Purposive Quantitative Questionnaire Frequency
undergraduates’ conceptions institutions /Qualitative /FGD/IDI &
of sexual performance and Percentage
sexual enhancement /Thematic
2. Investigate the quantity Students of higher Purposive Quantitative Questionnaire Frequency
(bottles and cups) of institutions /Qualitative /FGD/IDI &
alcoholic and non-alcoholic Percentage
beverages with aphrodisiac /Thematic
claims that are consumed
and the preferred ways of
mixing such beverages
among the undergraduates
3. Examine the factors that Students of higher Purposive Quantitative Questionnaire Logistic
influence the decisions institutions /Qualitative /FGD/IDI Binary
around the brand of such Regression
beverage that is consumed /Thematic
before, during or after any
sexual activity among the
undergraduates
4. Interrogate the notions of Students of higher Purposive Qualitative FGD/IDI Thematic
 74

responsible consumption of institutions

alcoholic and non-alcoholic
beverages with aphrodisiac
claims among students of
Obafemi Awolowo
University
 75

CHAPTER FIVE

DATA ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS

This chapter focuses on the data analysis and discussion of findings of this study.

Socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents is presented first. Then the findings

were presented based on the objectives which guided this study. The objectives of the study

are to explore heterosexual male undergraduates’ conceptions of sexual performance and

sexual enhancement at the two universities; investigate variations in the volumes (bottles and

cups) of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages with aphrodisiac claims that are consumed

and the preferred ways of mixing such beverages among the undergraduates; examine the

factors that influence the decisions around the brand of such beverage that is consumed

before, during or after any sexual activity among the undergraduates; and to interrogate the

notions of responsible consumption of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages with

aphrodisiac claims among undergraduates at both universities.

 76

5.1. Socio-Demographic Characteristics of the Participants

Table 5.1: Socio-demographic Characteristics of the Qualitative Discussants

Variables FGD Interview
(n = 39) (n = 9)
F % F %
Age 16 – 20 8 21 1 11
21 – 25 20 51 5 56
26 – 30 11 28 3 33
Current Level Students with Extra Years 7 18 2 22
500 Level 9 23 2 22
400 Level 10 26 3 33
300 Level 7 18 1 11
200 Level 4 10 1 11
100 Level 2 5 0 0
Age the respondents had 10 – 15 years 2 5 1 11
first girlfriends 16 – 20 years 33 85 7 78
21 – 25 years 4 10 1 11
Age of the respondents’ 10 – 15 years 13 33 5 56
first girlfriends 16 – 20 years 23 59 4 44
21 – 25 years 3 8 0 0
Age at first sexual 10 – 15 years 8 21 3 33
experience 16 – 20 years 20 51 5 56
21 – 25 years 7 18 1 11
26 – 30 years 4 10 0 0
Duration of shortest Less than a month 11 28 2 22
romantic relationship 1 – 6 months 15 38 4 44
7 – 12 months 8 21 2 22
Above 1 year 5 13 1 11
Number of girlfriends Only 1 2 5 0 0
ever had 2–3 5 13 0 0
4–5 15 39 1 11
6–7 7 18 5 56
8–9 6 15 2 22
Above 10 4 10 1 11
Duration of longest Less than 1 year 14 36 3 33
romantic relationship 1 - 2 years 11 28 4 44
2 – 3 years 10 26 1 11
3 – 4 years 4 10 1 11
Above 5 years 0 0 0 0
Currently in intimate Yes 33 85 5 56
relationship No 6 15 4 44
Number of sexual partners Single 16 41 3 33
at the moment Multiple 21 54 5 56
None 2 5 0 0
*F = Frequency, % = Percentage
 77

The socio-demographic characteristics of respondents in the qualitative part of the

study presented in the Table 5.1 above offers insights into the characteristics of heterosexual

male undergraduates and their engagement with notions of sexual enhancement and

consumption of aphrodisiac beverages. The data presents information on age, current level of

study, age at which respondents had their first girlfriends, age of respondents' first girlfriends,

age at which respondents had their first sexual intercourse, duration of the shortest romantic

relationship, number of girlfriends respondents have had, duration of the longest romantic

relationship, current relationship status, and number of sexual partners at the moment.

In terms of age, the majority of respondents fell into the 21-25 years category (51%).

This age range is significant as it corresponds to the typical age of undergraduate students,

suggesting that the data captures the experiences and behaviours of individuals within the

target population. Regarding current level of study, the data reveals a varied distribution

across different levels, with a higher concentration in the 400 and 500 levels (26% and 23%

respectively). This indicates that the data represents a mix of undergraduate students at

different stages of their academic journey. When examining the age at which respondents had

their first girlfriends, the majority reported it to be between 16-20 years (85%). This suggests

that the respondents have had some experience with romantic relationships during their

adolescence and early adulthood.

The duration of the shortest and longest romantic relationships provides insights into

the stability and longevity of the respondents' past intimate relationships. The majority of

respondents had intimate relationships lasting between 1-6 months (38%) and less than a year

(36%) for the shortest and longest durations respectively. These relatively short durations

indicate a tendency for shorter-term intimate relationships among the respondents. The

number of girlfriends respondents have had shown a diverse range of experiences. A

significant portion had 2-5 girlfriends (39%), while others reported having had more than 6
 78

girlfriends (33%). This indicates that there is a considerable variation in the number of

intimate relationships the respondents have been involved in.

The current relationship status reveals that a majority of respondents (85%) are

currently in an intimate relationship, indicating that they are actively engaged in romantic and

sexual partnerships. When considering the number of sexual partners at the moment, the data

indicates that a significant percentage of respondents (54%) reported having multiple sexual

partners, while a smaller percentage (41%) reported being single. This suggests a degree of

sexual exploration and variability in the respondents' sexual experiences.

In relation to the notions of sexual enhancement and consumption of aphrodisiac

beverages, the data provides a socio-demographic context. The findings indicate that the

respondents are within the typical age range for undergraduate students, implying that they

are likely to be exposed to various influences and pressures surrounding sexual performance

and enhancement.

In addition, the data shows that the respondents have had romantic relationships,

engaged in sexual activity, and have experienced varying degrees of relationship durations

and number of partners. These factors contribute to the social context in which notions of

sexual enhancement and the consumption of aphrodisiac beverages are situated.

 79

Table 5.2: Socio-Demographic Characteristics of the Quantitative Respondents

Variables SURVEY (n = 405) *F
F % M SD
= Age 16 – 20 years 176 44.2
21 – 25 years 157 39.4
99.5 80.3
26 – 30 years 57 14.3
31 – 35 years 8 2.1
Current Level Students with Extra Years 15 3.7
500 Level 46 11.4
400 Level 143 35.3
300 Level 92 22.7
200 Level 72 17.8
100 Level 37 9.1
Age the respondents had first Less than 10 years 5 1.3
girlfriends 10 – 15 years 94 25.3
16 – 20 years 228 61.5 74.2
93.6
21 – 25 years 41 11.1
26 – 30 years 3 0.8
Age of the respondents’ first Less than 10 years 5 1.3
girlfriends 10 – 15 years 79 21.0
16 – 20 years 233 62.0 62.7 89.5
21 – 25 years 55 14.6
26 – 30 years 3 0.8
31 – 35 years 1 0.3
Age at which respondents has Never had sex 18 5.8
first sexual intercourse Less than 10 years 3 1.0
10 – 15 years 23 7.4
51.5 78.0
16 – 20 years 207 67.0
21 – 25 years 51 16.5
26 – 30 years 7 2.3
Duration of shortest romantic Less than a month 74 19.5
relationship 1 – 6 months 209 55
95 77.0
7 – 12 months 50 13.2
Above 1 year 47 12.3
Number of girlfriends ever had None 8 2.1
Only 1 77 20.4
2–3 164 43.5
4–5 68 18.0 53.9 56.3
6–7 40 10.6
8–9 9 2.4
Above 10 11 2.9
Duration of longest romantic Less than 1 year 121 36.8
relationship 1 - 2 years 112 34
2 – 3 years 53 16.1 68.5 48.5
3 – 4 years 26 8.3
Above 5 years 17 5.1
Currently in intimate Yes 207 51.6
relationship No 194 48.6
Number of sexual partners at Single 313 85.5
the moment Multiple 50 13.7
None 3 0.8
Number of sexual partners ever Only 1 89 25.6
had 2–3 96 27.6
4–5 48 13.8
49.5 36.8
6–7 15 4.3
8–9 7 2.0
10 and above 42 12.1
Frequency, % = Percentage, M = Mean value, SD = Standard Deviation
 80

The socio-demographic data revealed that the majority of survey respondents (44.2%)

were within the 16–20 age category, indicating a predominance of young undergraduates.

This alignment with the typical college student age range suggests that the data captures the

experiences and perspectives of individuals in this demographic. Furthermore, the data shows

a diverse distribution across different levels of study, with a significant concentration (35.3%)

at the 400 level. This suggests a mix of undergraduate students at various stages of their

academic journey.

Examining the respondents' age at which they had their first girlfriends, the majority

(61.5%) reported it to be between 16 and 20 years old, indicating early experiences with

romantic relationships during adolescence and early adulthood. Analysis of the duration of

the shortest and longest romantic relationships reveals that the majority of respondents had

relationships lasting between 1-6 months (55% for the shortest duration), indicating a

tendency towards relatively shorter-term relationships.

When considering the number of girlfriends respondents have had, a significant

portion (43.5%) reported having 2-3 girlfriends, while a considerable number (30.4%)

reported having more than 4 girlfriends. This highlights the notable variability in the number

of relationships the respondents have been involved in. Additionally, the data shows that

approximately half of the respondents (51.6%) are currently in an intimate relationship,

indicating their active involvement in romantic partnerships.

Regarding the number of sexual partners, the data indicates that the majority of

respondents (85.5%) reported being single, while a smaller percentage (13.7%) reported

having multiple sexual partners. This suggests a diversity in the respondents' sexual

experiences and behaviours. In relation to notions of sexual enhancement and the

consumption of aphrodisiac beverages, the socio-demographic data provides a relevant

 81

context. The findings indicate that the respondents are primarily young undergraduates, a

crucial period for sexual exploration and development.

Furthermore, the data reveals that the respondents have had romantic relationships,

engaged in sexual activity, and experienced a range of relationship durations and numbers of

partners. These factors contribute to the social context in which notions of sexual

enhancement and the consumption of aphrodisiac beverages are situated. Considering age,

relationship experiences, current relationship status, and sexual behaviour becomes crucial

when examining the factors influencing the attitudes and behaviours of this particular group

of heterosexual male undergraduates.

Overall, the socio-demographic data provides a foundation for understanding the

characteristics and experiences of heterosexual male undergraduates in relation to sexual

enhancement and the consumption of aphrodisiac beverages. It highlights the importance of

considering age, relationship experiences, current relationship status, and sexual behaviour

when examining the factors influencing the attitudes and behaviours of this particular group.

5.2. Concept of Sexual Performance and Enhancement

This theme focuses on the opinions of the interviewees on sexual performance and

enhancement. Sub-themes such as fantasies about sexual pleasure, sexual performance, and

ways of improving sexual performance are discussed here.

5.2.1. Fantasies about Sexual Pleasure among Undergraduates

The participant expresses an interest in engaging in various sexual activities, such as

threesomes and sexual encounters with porn stars. This suggests a desire for novelty,

experimentation, and exploration of different sexual experiences. The use of phrases like they

will collect may indicate a sense of conquest or achievement associated with engaging in such

fantasies. From a sociological standpoint, this quotation highlights the role of cultural

influences, such as pornography, in shaping and fuelling individuals' sexual fantasies. It also
 82

raises questions about how these fantasies may impact individuals' perceptions of sexual

pleasure and their expectations in real-life sexual encounters.

On the other hand, a more broad-minded and open approach to sexual pleasure was

expressed by another respondent. The participant mentions a preference for anything fun,

without specifically focusing on explicit or unconventional fantasies. This perspective

suggests a more flexible and inclusive view of sexual pleasure, encompassing a wider range

of experiences and activities. This quotation emphasizes the importance of individual

variation in sexual fantasies and desires, as well as the influence of personal preferences and

cultural factors on shaping these fantasies.

I have not done them before, my fantasies remain as they had always seen
me, threesome, threesomes as usual and of course I will like to fuck all this
porn stars, all of them they will collect, they will still collect.
FGD_1_Uniosun

These quotations emphasize the individuality and diversity of sexual fantasies and

desires. It suggests the influence of personal experiences, cultural factors, and media,

including pornography, in shaping these fantasies. Sociological analysis helps us understand

the varying attitudes towards sexuality within society and the importance of recognizing and

respecting diverse perspectives.

 83

5.2.2 Concept of Sexual Performance among Undergraduates

Table 5.3: Sexual Performance

Responses
Variables Yes Total
F % F %
Sexual performance is being able to hit one’s 242 59.6 406 100
partner hard during sexual intercourse.
It is being able to have multiple rounds of sexual 238 58.6 406 100
intercourse at a go.
It is making one’s partner cum during sexual 318 78.1 407 100
intercourse
It is satisfying one’s sexual partner on bed most of 336 82.7 406 100
the time.
It is lasting long during sexual intercourse. 312 76.8 406 100
It is delaying ejaculation for more pleasure. 235 58.3 403 100
It is showing stamina/strength to sexually satisfy 299 73.5 407 100
one’s partner.
It is showing skills to sexually satisfy one’s partner 314 77.7 404 100
It is showing experience to sexually satisfy one’s 274 67.8 404 100
partner
Women are more satisfied if they have several 287 71.2 403 100
orgasms through vaginal penetration
A sexually competent man can make his partner 306 75.6 404 100
have orgasm through virginal penetration.
For a man to perform sexually, he needs:
To be able to engage in different styles during 319 79.0 404 100
sexual intercourse.
To be able to engage in oral and ouuhther sexual 250 63.1 396 100
explorations.
A big size manhood 200 50.4 397 100
An average size manhood 270 68.0 397 100
A small size manhood 125 31.2 401 100
To be able to use his manhood skilfully. 376 93.5 402 100
To be physically stronger than the woman 311 78.1 398 100
To maintain erection for the time a woman requires 283 75.1 377 100
to have multiple orgasms.

The data provided in Table 5.3 above offers insights into the notion of sexual

performance among undergraduates, showcasing their perceptions and beliefs about what

constitutes sexual competence. Examining the responses, shed more light on the underlying

social and cultural factors that shape these perceptions.

One notable finding from the data is the emphasis placed on satisfying one's sexual

partner during intercourse. The majority of respondents (82.7%) considered sexual

 84

performance as being able to satisfy their partner on a regular basis, make their partner reach

orgasm, or be skilled, experienced, and capable of providing pleasure. This suggests that

undergraduates place significant value on their partner's satisfaction and perceive sexual

competence as being closely tied to their ability to fulfil their partner's sexual needs and

desires. These beliefs may be influenced by societal expectations and gendered norms that

emphasize the importance of pleasuring one's partner.

In addition, the data highlights the significance of endurance and stamina during

sexual intercourse. Many respondents (76.8%) considered lasting long, delaying ejaculation,

and engaging in multiple rounds of intercourse as indicators of sexual performance. These

perceptions may be influenced by cultural discourses around masculinity, which often

associate sexual prowess with physical stamina and the ability to sustain sexual activity for

extended periods. These expectations can place pressure on individuals to conform to these

ideals of endurance and stamina, impacting their self-perceptions and sexual experiences.

The data also reveals the importance placed on sexual techniques and skills.

Respondents (77.7%) considered showing skills, experience, and being able to engage in

different styles as essential aspects of sexual performance. This suggests that undergraduates

perceive sexual competence as encompassing a range of techniques and the ability to adapt

and explore diverse sexual practices. These beliefs may be influenced by cultural influences

such as media, pornography, and peer discussions, which often depict and emphasize the

importance of sexual skills and versatility.

The data also includes responses regarding penis size and physical strength. It is

noteworthy that a significant portion of respondents (93.5%) perceived these factors as

influential in determining sexual performance. The focus on penis size may stem from

cultural narratives around male virility and societal expectations that associate a larger penis

with enhanced sexual pleasure. Similarly, the emphasis on physical strength may be linked to
 85

traditional notions of masculinity, where physical dominance and power are valued in sexual

contexts. These perceptions reflect how societal norms and cultural ideals around gender and

sexuality influence individuals' understanding of sexual performance.

Qualitative data validated these findings when some of the interviewees opined that

sexual performance is basically how long you last in bed during sexual intercourse, how

many rounds you can go, how many styles you can do during intercourse and how much you

can make a girl feel good or climax during sexual intercourse. They clarified that some

people placed premium on how long you can last while other believed how many rounds you

can go is more important. They explained further that sexual performance included ability to

engage a girl in an interesting foreplay, knowing the right time and place to kiss and touch.

To them, a guy has performed sexually well if he is able to do until the girl get exhausted.

Respondents shared diverse perspectives and beliefs surrounding sexual performance,

particularly concerning duration and the number of rounds of sexual intercourse. For some

individuals, sexual performance is associated with how long one can last and how many

rounds of sexual intercourse they can engage in indicating a focus on endurance and

prolonged sexual activity. This perspective emphasizes endurance and stamina as key

indicators of sexual performance. The other perspective emphasizes the importance of

engaging in multiple rounds of sexual intercourse, with the notion that if one hasn't

completed four rounds, they haven't truly performed sexually. These differing viewpoints

illustrate the diversity of beliefs and expectations surrounding sexual performance among

undergraduates. These beliefs may be influenced by cultural discourses that associate

masculinity and sexual prowess with the ability to sustain sexual activity for extended

periods. It reflects how societal norms around sexuality and gender can shape individuals'

perceptions of sexual performance.

There is nuance here, for some people, sexual performances are how long
you can last and how many rounds you can go. FGD_2_OAU
 86

…you have to go for 45 minutes in one round, and for some other if you
haven't done four rounds you haven't started or perform, that's the two
different sides of the coin of sexual performance. FGD_3_OAU
However, they believed sexual performance to a lady means being able to satisfy her,

while some needs the man to go a long time to be satisfied, others are satisfied once the guy

is able to ejaculate. Respondents highlights the diversity of experiences among women when

it comes to orgasm and squirting. They mention that some women say they don't orgasm,

some say they don't squirt, and some do. This statement underscores the individual variation

and subjectivity in women's sexual experiences and challenges the notion of a universal

standard or expectation for female sexual pleasure. It also reflects the influence of social and

cultural factors on the understanding and expression of female pleasure.

Comes (ejaculate), is, the thing is now some ladies say that they don't come
some say they don't squirt and some do, shey you get. So, before, it depends
on the lady. Interview_5_Uniosun
Talking about how to measure sexual performance, the interviewees believed that it is

measured by the level of satisfaction you and your partner get at each sexual intercourse.

They emphasized that some measured it based on how much they were able to stress the lady

during sex, some believed it is based on the technique or style of sexual intercourse while

others think it is how long you are able to last in bed. To measure it, both parties need to ask

each other questions during intercourse for necessary adjustment so as to have a fulfilling

sexual intercourse in which both parties are satisfied.

hmm, you can measure it with your degree, the way you are satisfied in
degree to which you're satisfied and your partner also very important to ask
your partner some questions to know if you have been able to hit the spot
and use this drug right. FGD_4_OAU
Just like sexual performance, among the interviewees, sexual satisfaction means being

able to explore a lady’s body, touching her at the right spots and satisfying her fantasies. It

means being able to reach orgasm i.e. climax either with penetration or without penetration.

In others words, if both parties are able to reach orgasm during sexual activities, it means
 87

they were both satisfied. To some, sexual satisfaction means the lady feeling she went

through something and something went through her after intercourse. Some people believed

satisfaction is a function of how much activities you are able to involve in during intercourse

before you reach climax. To them, the climax in the goal but satisfaction is how much you

were able to do before you reach the goal.

I think sexual satisfaction is a two-way thing, So, it depends on what context

you are talking about from. But I feel satisfaction is when both parties
involved in the thing actually feel satisfied. They both feel the heat in climax
for them, whatever, whatever climax mean for them. Some people actually
want to release semen like, like get to that point where they release semen.
And to some people it is just to. Interview_4_OAU
Basically yeah!! The end game is to have an orgasm here, but the
satisfaction that you derive on the way, it can vary a lot. FGD_3_OAU
This excerpt raises several salient issues related to sexual preferences and

experiences. It highlights the subjective nature of sexual satisfaction, suggesting that it can

vary significantly depending on individual preferences and the qualities exhibited by a

particular partner. It also implies that sexual satisfaction is not solely determined by the end

goal of orgasm but also by the enjoyment derived throughout the sexual encounter.

Furthermore, this excerpt touches upon the notion of sexual skill and performance. It suggests

that certain attributes or abilities can contribute to a partner's reputation as being good in bed.

This notion emphasizes the social construction of sexual competence and how individuals

perceive and evaluate their own and others' sexual abilities.

By exploring these issues, the excerpt encourages readers to consider the multifaceted

nature of sexual satisfaction and the diverse factors that contribute to it. The respondents

further explained what sexual enhancement entails and how sexual performance could be

enhanced as discussed in the next sub-theme.

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5.2.5. Enhancing Sexual Performance

Notions of sexual performance among heterosexual male undergraduates often

revolve around specific ideals and expectations influenced by cultural scripts and gender

norms. These may include lasting long during sexual intercourse, satisfying one's partner,

demonstrating physical stamina, displaying sexual skills or techniques, and even possessing a

certain physical attribute such as a larger penis. These expectations can create pressures and

anxieties around living up to these standards and being seen as sexually competent.

In response to these expectations, heterosexual male undergraduates may seek out

ways to enhance their sexual performance. Enhancement can take various forms, including

physical, psychological, and social strategies. Physical enhancement may involve the use of

substances such as performance-enhancing drugs or supplements, practicing specific

exercises or techniques to improve stamina or control, or even resorting to cosmetic

procedures to alter physical attributes. The desire for enhancement is shaped by a range of

social factors. Cultural influences, such as media portrayals of sexual prowess or societal

expectations of male sexual performance, can contribute to the desire to enhance one's

abilities. Peer interactions and discussions may also play a role in shaping individuals' beliefs

and motivating them to seek enhancement. Additionally, commercial industries, such as

pharmaceutical companies or the adult entertainment industry, may capitalize on these desires

by marketing products or services promising to enhance sexual performance.

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Table 5.4: What Sexual Enhancement Entails

Responses
Variables Yes Total
F % F %
Men uses sexual enhancements because they do not 302 74.9 403 100
have satisfactory sex with their partners
It entails making efforts to get a woman to climax 339 84.1 403 100
(orgasm) during intercourse
Men use aphrodisiacs (manpower) because it has to 314 78.3 401 100
do with erectile functions
If a woman uses sex toys, it is because she is 227 57.9 392 100
sexually dissatisfied with her partner
If a man feels sexual desire for other women, 207 51.4 403 100
aphrodisiacs (manpower) is needed to satisfy those
women sexually
Men use aphrodisiacs (manpower) because it 292 73.0 400 100
promotes sexual desire
The use of aphrodisiacs (manpower) helps men 292 72.8 401 100
exact their masculinity

Table 5.4 offers insights into the sociological aspects of enhancing sexual

performance among heterosexual male undergraduates. One notable finding is that a

significant proportion (74.9%) of respondents believe that men use sexual enhancements

because they do not have satisfactory sex with their partners. This suggests that there is a

prevailing expectation among heterosexual male undergraduates to meet certain standards of

sexual satisfaction for their partners. The belief that sexual enhancements are employed to

compensate for perceived inadequacies or shortcomings in sexual performance reflects the

social pressure to conform to idealized notions of sexual prowess and meet partner

expectations. The data also indicates that a majority (84.1%) of respondents believe that

enhancing sexual performance entails making efforts to ensure a woman's climax (orgasm)

during intercourse. This aligns with the understanding that sexual satisfaction and orgasm are

important markers of successful sexual encounters. The emphasis on female orgasm as a

measure of sexual performance highlights the influence of cultural scripts and gender norms

that prioritize male responsibility for female pleasure and reinforce traditional gender roles

within heterosexual relationships.

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Additionally, the data reveals that a substantial proportion of respondents (78.3%)

believe that men use aphrodisiacs (manpower) because it relates to erectile functions. This

suggests that there is a connection between the ability to maintain an erection and the

perception of sexual performance among heterosexual male undergraduates. The association

between aphrodisiac use and erectile function underscores the pressure to conform to societal

expectations of male sexual performance and highlights the influence of cultural narratives

surrounding masculinity and virility. Furthermore, the data suggests that some respondents

believe that women's use of sex toys indicates sexual dissatisfaction with their partners

(57.9%). This belief reflects societal norms that may stigmatize or pathologize the use of sex

toys, potentially perpetuating the idea that a partner's reliance on these tools signifies

inadequacy on the part of the male partner. Such notions can contribute to insecurities and

anxieties surrounding sexual performance and may impact the dynamics of sexual

relationships.

The data also reveals a belief that if a man feels sexual desire for other women,

aphrodisiacs (manpower) are needed to satisfy those women sexually (51.4%). This notion

reflects the perception that sexual desire for others outside of a committed relationship should

be fulfilled, and the use of sexual enhancements is seen as a means to meet those desires.

This finding highlights the societal pressure on men to perform sexually and meet perceived

expectations, even outside of their primary relationships.

The qualitative data offers insights into the sociological aspects of enhancing sexual

performance among heterosexual male undergraduates, particularly in relation to the use of

substances and practices believed to enhance sexual performance. The use of local drinks and

a specific product called Burantasi is strongly believed to enhance sexual potency. This

points to the existence of cultural practices and beliefs surrounding the use of substances as
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aphrodisiacs or sexual enhancements. The availability and utilization of such substances can

be influenced by cultural norms and local traditions.

Emphasis was placed on the importance of exercise, specifically walking and natural

methods, to increase testosterone levels and improve sexual performance. This highlights the

belief in the connection between physical fitness, hormone levels, and sexual performance.

The idea that natural methods are preferred over artificial drugs reflects a preference for

holistic and sustainable approaches to sexual enhancement. In addition, the relationship

between consuming sweets, testosterone levels, and heightened sensitivity to touch was

pointed out as other means of enhancing sexual performance. This belief illustrates the

association between diet, hormonal balance, and sexual arousal. The mention of supplements

and herbs, such as Agbo Jedi (Herbs) as potential aids in enhancing sexual performance

suggests the influence of alternative medicine and cultural beliefs in the pursuit of sexual

enhancement.

These responses reveal the influence of cultural, social, and individual factors in

shaping notions of enhancing sexual performance among heterosexual male undergraduates.

Well, the thing is they take some things, and there are drugs and there are
drinks, there are local drinks that they take to do that. The Hausa sells
something called burantasi that varies manpower but I have not had the
need to, although I don’t take certain things, I don’t take sugar at all. I take
wine sometimes and I think that in itself actually helped. Interview_4_OAU

Walking out and exercise increases testosterone movement, there are drugs
for it too, but don't take all those too artificial drugs, keep it's more natural.
Interview_1_Uniosun
Naturally as a guy when you take too much sweets, you get sensitive when a
girl touches you and charged, increase your testosterone level, it is very
important, I believe there are some supplements you can take, aside sports,
it helps a lot, I feel like that is the best... All these Agbo Jedi (Herbs).
FGD_1_Uniosun

These excerpts touch upon the topic of substances and their potential influence on

sexual experiences. They mention the consumption of local drinks, the avoidance of sugar,
 92

the occasional use of wine, the role of exercise in boosting testosterone, and the belief in the

efficacy of herbal supplements. These references provide insights into the perceived

connection between substances and sexual performance. Respondents touched on the concept

of using substances, specifically drugs and drinks, to enhance sexual experiences. The

mention of Burantasi, a local drink sold by the Hausa people, suggests the use of

aphrodisiacs or substances believed to increase sexual potency. They mention avoiding sugar

but occasionally consuming wine, which they believe has positively impacted their sexual

experiences.

By examining the diverse range of substances and their perceived effects, a

comprehensive understanding of the role of aphrodisiacs in sexual experiences can be

achieved. Exploring the mixture and content of aphrodisiacs consumed can be made by

further exploring the specific substances and ingredients that individuals believe to have

aphrodisiac properties as is it evident in the next theme. This theme delved into the types,

availability, and the factors associated with their use.

5.3. Mixture and Quantity of Aphrodisiac Contents Consumed

This theme focuses on examples of aphrodisiacs known by undergraduates, quantity

of aphrodisiacs consumed by undergraduates, aphrodisiacs usage experience among

undergraduates, and factors responsible for the usage of aphrodisiacs among undergraduates.

5.3.1. Examples of Aphrodisiacs known by Undergraduates

According to the participants, there are alcoholic, non-alcoholic and other types of

aphrodisiacs. The alcoholic aphrodisiacs mentioned by the undergraduates included Japata,

Alomo Bitters, Pelorie, Jekanmo, Odogwu, Kick-and-Start, Adonko bitter, Mokole, Aleyi-ale,

Burantasi, Conac, Viagra, and Pakurumo among others, provide a glimpse into the specific

substances that are believed to have aphrodisiac properties. These substances are often

mentioned in street or local contexts, suggesting that they are readily available and accessible
 93

within the cultural environment of the participants. The use of such aphrodisiacs may be

influenced by cultural beliefs and traditional knowledge passed down through generations. It

is worth noting that the specific effects and ingredients of these substances may vary, and

some of them may be marketed as herbal or traditional remedies.

The mention of Burantasi stands out as a specific aphrodisiac associated with Hausa

men. The participants suggest that the use of Burantasi by Hausa men is believed to make

them sexually potent, which may lead to a perception of them being more desirable to

women. This example highlights the influence of cultural beliefs and stereotypes around

certain aphrodisiacs and their association with specific cultural or ethnic groups.

The normal ones peddle on the streets like Japata, Koroki all those things
Alomo, those things, yeah, it doesn't contain these things. Pelorie, yeah,
Jekimomo, Odogwu, kick-and-start. Interview_1_OAU

The two non-alcoholic aphrodisiacs mentioned by the interviewees included Jampata

and Jekiwoman. Other types mentioned included Tramadol, Alabukun, and Viagra OG. The

mention of Viagra OG highlights the popularity of Viagra, a well-known pharmaceutical

drug used to treat erectile dysfunction, among this demographic. The term OG suggests that it

is a recognized and respected option within the context of aphrodisiacs. It is worth noting that

the participant advises against using the full strength of Viagra, indicating an awareness of

the potential risks and side effects associated with its use. This highlights a certain level of

caution and concern for one's well-being when using aphrodisiacs or sexual enhancement

products.

In addition, the mention of non-alcoholic aphrodisiacs, such as Tramadol, Alabukun,

Japata, and Jekomo these substances are referred to as ones that can get you down,

suggesting their potential effectiveness in achieving the desired outcomes. The use of these

substances may be influenced by cultural beliefs and traditional knowledge passed down

within the participants' social context.

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The examples of aphrodisiacs mentioned reflect the diverse range of options available

to heterosexual male undergraduates to enhance their sexual performance. These options

include both pharmaceutical products like Viagra and traditional herbal remedies like Japata

and Jekomo. The variety of choices suggests that individuals navigate a complex landscape of

cultural, commercial, and personal influences when seeking ways to enhance their sexual

experiences.

The mention of specific names for these aphrodisiacs, such as Viagra OG, Japata, and

Jekomo, reflects the social construction and branding associated with these substances. The

names carry meaning and connotations, and they contribute to the cultural understanding and

perception of their effectiveness.

You know, you have the OG that's the Viagra OG, don't use full Viagra oh.
Interview_6_OAU

We’ve mentioned the non-acholic, those ones are Japata, Jekomo, those
ones are strictly you know about to get you down. FGD_1_Uniosun

They spoke further that more and more undergraduates are using energy drinks and

that it is now very common among them. The participants describe it as a widespread

practice, with estimated percentages ranging from 80% to 85%. This highlights the popularity

and prevalence of aphrodisiac use within this demographic. The various contexts where

aphrodisiacs are commonly consumed, such as clubs, lounges, and even in private settings

like in the private homes were mentioned. They also observe that their friends often engage in

the consumption of these substances, indicating a social dimension to their usage. The

participants note that aphrodisiacs are seen as a necessary enhancement for sexual

encounters, suggesting a belief in their effectiveness in improving sexual performance or

pleasure.

The mention of plastic packaging and the notion of carrying aphrodisiacs in pockets

imply that these substances are readily available and easily accessible to heterosexual male
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undergraduates. The data also suggests that aphrodisiacs are consumed on a regular basis,

potentially indicating a habitual or routine use among this population. The popularity and

usage of aphrodisiacs among heterosexual male undergraduates can be understood within a

broader context of cultural scripts, societal expectations, and peer influence. The participants'

observations of their friends' consumption and the perception of aphrodisiacs as a necessary

aid for sexual encounters suggest a social construction of masculinity and sexual

performance.

The social nature of aphrodisiac consumption among heterosexual male

undergraduates’ points to the influence of peer norms and socialization processes. The

participants mention seeing their friends' activities and status updates related to aphrodisiac

use, indicating a form of social validation or conformity. This aligns with the concept of peer

pressure and the desire to fit in or meet certain expectations within a social group.

Yeah, it is very common, I would say 85%. FGD_3_OAU

It is super common, like 80%, very common. Interviewer_3_Uniosun

Very common, I have a lot of friends and I see their status when they are
hanging out, like the bulk tail of what they are consuming, I actually don’t
see that, so you see guys mixing in clubs, in lounge and even at the house,
you see them there is always this plastic, some of them have it in their
pocket, it sounds as though they have to consume this every day and they
believe so much in it, some say if you have to do this girl, you have to take
this but there is a possibility that they might heat on her, you need
something to enhance them, yeah I think it is common among
undergraduate. Interview_4_OAU

The opinions of the respondents on the preferred mixture and quantity of beverages

consumed by male undergraduates are presented in Table 5.5.

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Table 5.5: Mixture and Quantity of Aphrodisiac Contents Consumed by Heterosexual

Male Students
Variables Responses F %
Aphrodisiac mixed with alcohol 112 29.7
Preferred aphrodisiac Aphrodisiac mixed with water 144 38.2
beverages Both 118 31.3
None 3 0.8
Aphrodisiacs mixed with alcohol are 115 29.6
more effective
Reasons for the choice of Aphrodisiacs mixed with water are more 33 8.5
Aphrodisiac beverages, effective
Both are effective 145 37.3
I do not take alcohol 96 24.7
aphrodisiac (manpower) beverages 176 46.3
mixed & blended inside a sealed bottle
(e.g., Origin Bitters, Jekomo, Alomo
Bitters etc.)
Preferred beverages aphrodisiac (manpower) beverages made 97 25.5
up of herbal roots mixed inside a
container or bottle (e.g., Agbo Opa-Eyin,
Mokole)
Both 105 27.6
None 2 0.5
Influenced of preferred Increased level of consumption 120 31.6
ways of mixing on level No effect on level of consumption 214 56.3
of consumption Decreased level of consumption 46 12.1
Quantity of the mixture One shot cup 126 33.5
respondents can consume Two or more shot cups 41 10.9
at once. One 100ml bottle 138 36.7
One 150ml bottle 36 9.6
More than 100ml bottles 35 9.3
Before sex 253 66.9
Time preferred to During sex 7 1.9
consume these beverages After sex 9 2.4
Other times (for strength) 109 28.8

According to the data, there are three main categories of preferred aphrodisiac

beverages: aphrodisiac mixed with alcohol, aphrodisiac mixed with water, or a combination

of both. The majority of respondents (38.2%) prefer aphrodisiac mixed with water, while

29.7% prefer it mixed with alcohol. Additionally, 31.3% of respondents prefer a combination

of both. A small percentage (0.8%) reported not consuming any aphrodisiac beverages. The

reasons for the choice of aphrodisiac beverages varied among respondents. Some believed

that aphrodisiacs mixed with alcohol were more effective (29.6%), while others thought that
 97

aphrodisiacs mixed with water were more effective (8.5%). The majority (37.3%) believed

that both mixtures were effective, and a significant portion (24.7%) stated that they do not

consume alcohol.

Regarding the preferred type of beverages, 46.3% of respondents favoured

aphrodisiac beverages mixed and blended inside a sealed bottle, such as Origin Bitters,

Jekanmo, or Alomo Bitters. On the other hand, 25.5% preferred aphrodisiac beverages made

up of herbal roots mixed inside a container or bottle, such as Agbo Opa-Eyin or Mokole. A

smaller percentage (27.6%) expressed a preference for both types of beverages, while only

0.5% reported not consuming any. The data also provides information on the influence of

preferred ways of mixing on the level of consumption. The majority of respondents (56.3%)

stated that the preferred way of mixing had no effect on their level of consumption. However,

a significant portion (31.6%) reported an increased level of consumption, while a smaller

percentage (12.1%) reported a decreased level of consumption.

When it comes to the quantity of the mixture consumed at once, respondents provided

various responses. The most common response was consuming one shot cup (33.5%),

followed by one 100ml bottle (36.7%). Some respondents reported consuming two or more

shot cups (10.9%), one 150ml bottle (9.6%), or more than 100ml bottles (9.3%).

In terms of the preferred time to consume these beverages, the majority of respondents

(66.9%) preferred consuming them before sex. A small percentage reported consuming them

during sex (1.9%) or after sex (2.4%), while a significant portion (28.8%) consumed them at

other times for reasons related to strength.

The preference for different mixtures and quantities of aphrodisiac contents reflects

individual choices, cultural influences, and personal beliefs about efficacy. The variation in

preferred mixtures, such as mixing with alcohol or water, highlights diverse cultural practices

and preferences among heterosexual male undergraduates. The reasons for choosing specific
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mixtures, such as perceived effectiveness, personal preferences, or abstaining from alcohol,

illustrate how individuals navigate and negotiate their beliefs and desires in relation to

aphrodisiac consumption. The preferred types of beverages, whether mixed and blended or

composed of herbal roots, suggest the influence of cultural knowledge, traditional practices,

and beliefs about the potency and effects of different formulations.

The influence of preferred ways of mixing on the level of consumption indicates that

personal preferences and beliefs about efficacy may impact the quantity of aphrodisiacs

consumed. Some individuals reported an increased level of consumption based on their

preferred mixture, while others reported a decreased level.

5.3.2. Quantity of Aphrodisiacs Consumed by Undergraduates

The participants mention specific aphrodisiacs such as Alomo, Jekomo, and root-based

concoctions, and provide details about the recommended quantities or servings. A participant

mentions consuming a whole bottle of Alomo, which is typically around 35cl, whereas

another suggests drinking a smaller portion of around 10/20cl. These quantities imply varying

levels of consumption and potentially different effects depending on the amount consumed.

It was also mentioned by participant that the sellers/hawkers preparing the root-based

concoctions advices on the consumption instructions. They mention using a short cup and

having around two shots of the spirit poured into it. This suggests that there are specific

guidelines or cultural practices associated with the consumption of these aphrodisiacs. The

mention of discretion adds another layer of complexity to the quantity of aphrodisiacs

consumed. This suggests that the amount consumed may depend on individual preferences,

cultural norms, or personal beliefs about what is considered appropriate or effective.

…but all those Alomo, Jekomo, maybe drink the whole bottle, I think it is
like 35cl, 10/20cl, okay you just take the 10/20cl. Interview_1_Uniosun
The ones in the root that they will make for you in the bottle, the woman
making it for you will tell you how to consume it sey you get. Mostly the
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short cup, maybe like two shot sey you get, you just see her pour spirit into
it. Interview_2_OAU
I think it's based on discretion I suppose, it is based on discretion because
Yeah it is based on discretion. Interview_6_OAU
Some people mixed the sachet and plastic energy drinks with other types of drinks (which are

not mentioned) in other to increase its effectiveness.

I think just like drug just like people who do hard drugs I feel it's an attempt
to increase its yes, its efficacy so to say. Interview_4_Uniosun
However, they clarified that they don’t use it every time they wanted to have sex so as

to avoid a situation whereby you would not be able to perform without it. One of them said

he used it for one out of five sexual intercourses he had. He only used it when he wants to

make impression or prove his strength to a lady. Whereas, some interviewees said most guys

used Opa-eyin every morning to flush their body system because it proved to be medicinal.

I think averagely, maybe one in every three times, like one in every five
times. So, like every time you want to make if you want to make an
impression, I mean, you probably always want to make an impression, but
sometimes you don't need overthink it, that's just it here. Interview_9_OAU

But in the case of the Opaeyin and those roots you know some of them are
proven to be medicinal too, according to the production. So, they take it
normally everyday maybe every morning. Take it like… it's a flush system.
FGD_1_Uniosun

The excerpt highlights the practice of incorporating herbal products with aphrodisiac

claims and other roots into daily routines for their purported medicinal benefits. These

substances are seen as a means of maintaining overall health and well-being.

It is worth exploring how individuals perceive the effects of these roots and other

substances on their sexual experiences. This could involve examining personal anecdotes,

cultural beliefs, and traditional knowledge surrounding the use of aphrodisiacs. By exploring

the experiences of individuals who use aphrodisiacs, a more comprehensive understanding of

their perceived effects and potential benefits or drawbacks can be gained.

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5.3.3. Aphrodisiacs Usage Experience among Undergraduates

The users of aphrodisiacs who were interviewed validated the quantitative when

majority of them confessed that they used it before sex, they explained that they usually use it

about thirty minutes to one hour before sex.

Anytime they want to use it, there is no dosage now, it is anytime they want
to use it, E dey. Most people use it when they want to have sex maybe 30
minutes or an hour before. And it is not even every time sef, maybe there
this special girl you want to impress, or you wan teach her one or two
lessons, anytime. FGD_3_OAU

Notwithstanding, some people used herbal ones regularly, as often as daily or about

three times a week in order to burn fat and reduce sugar in their body which will make them

not to need energy drinks whenever they want to have sex because the regular herb would

make them fit without enhancement.

Okay, do you bottle ones the ones that are like cleanser yeah, Now, if you if
you're taking them for cleansing purposes like maybe he's not like he wants
to have sex in the next hour that's why you're taking you're taking those
ones because you want to like, you're taking those ones because you don't
want to take Japata when you want to have sex that's why you're taking
those herbal ones. Shey you gets, so you like you got to take those ones like
maybe 1, 2, 3 times a week if like if you like. FGD_2_OAU

Narrating their experiences using aphrodisiacs, majority of them said it put them in

the mood for sex and causes their penis to rise. On the contrary, one of them said it disturbed

his stomach and caused him to purge (diarrhoea) whenever they used it. Another said

alcoholic energy drinks weakened and deadened his body, so he could not use it for sexual

enhancement because it worked otherwise in his body.

Yes, I actually can’t disagree with the alcohol sentiment because, alcohol
make me feel dead, even Kolag, because of the alcohol content it just
deadens my body in a way, I should not lie, alcohol for sex with me is not.
FGD_1_Uniosun

They spoke further that it helped them to be strong during sex and makes their penis

to stand erect. They explained that their penis could be so strong that the lady’s virginal be

almost torn in the process. One of them narrated how it was counter-productive for him
 101

because he could not ejaculate throughout the session of the intercourse when he used energy

drink he collected from his friend. He explained that he had not used sexual enhancement

drinks before that time but he had heard about it and how it helped to perform better, so he

collected it and his experience that day was that he could not ejaculate throughout the

intercourse session, which he did not feel good about.

Okay. Actually, there's a time when I went, I went chilling out. And I took I
heard from friends you know, those drinking how that that if you take
energy drink, together acholic drink like, it actually increases you know and
I was curious and I went out hanging out with a lady. And I did take that
before like have sex I did take that. I just want to know how that works. So,
but the thing is on the contrary, it affected me, I didn’t come (ejaculate)
fast, I didn’t even come that day, I couldn’t come at all. I wasn't as hard as
I should. And for the first time I was shocked. FGD_1_Uniosun

I used it once and almost died of blue balls after 2 to 3 rounds, I had that
experience with Viagra. FGD_3_OAU

Their experience after sex included their penis not coming down but stayed erect and

hard. They added that if the penis stands erect for about three hours, it would start paining

them. In other words, penis pain is sometimes experienced by guys, who used aphrodisiacs

for sexual enhancement, after intercourse session.

Yeah, it has like it has like a period it has like maybe like three hour or like
a four-hour period where, I think that thing that is the healthy ratio I mean
if your dick is harder for more than three hours, your dick will start to pain
you no be lie everybody knows this your dick go dey pain you, so yeah, I
think that's. Interview_2_OAU

This highlights the belief that aphrodisiacs have a specific timeframe during which

they are expected to enhance sexual performance. This timeframe is considered desirable, as

it allows for improved sexual experiences without potential negative effects such as

prolonged pain or discomfort. It is important to consider how these perceived timeframes and

expectations shape their decisions, and the factors that play a role in the usage of

aphrodisiacs. Understanding these factors can provide insights into the motivations and
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decision-making processes of undergraduate male students when it comes to incorporating

aphrodisiacs into their sexual experiences.

5.3.4. Factors Responsible for the Usage of Aphrodisiacs among Undergraduates

A number of factors are responsible for the consumption of aphrodisiacs among

undergraduates, these factors included to prove manliness to girls, boost their confidence,

improve sexual performance, reduce sugar in their body, remedy for sexual challenges, and to

get high. The interviewees put it forward that some students used aphrodisiacs so that girls

would not be able to talk bad of them after the encounter. In other words, they used it to earn

street credit and be rated high among ladies because they believed that ladies normally

discuss their experiences with guys among their colleagues and any guy that did not perform

up to their expectation would be talked down. They also used it to prove themselves to ladies

who had looked down on them and they want to earn respect from her, they would use it to

prove their manliness.

I actually think street credit is one of the most important things for
undergraduate, young males we care very much what people thinks the
people around us talk about us and like one of the top triggers of
masculinity like say you can perform well in bed, if not, girls no go rate you
if you not fit perform well. And at the same time even your own niggas go
dey think say what’s up now. And street Credit is also a big factor I feel like
is a place of confidence. The confidence and energy. FGD_3_OAU

Another reason why undergraduates used aphrodisiacs is to boost their ego and

confidence. They explained that there were times one might not have confidence in his ability

to last in bed and you would not want to disgrace yourself, so, when you take energy drinks,

you gain confidence in yourself and you will be sure you would last long and you would have

confidence in your ability to satisfy your partner. Likewise, some people take it routinely to

reduce the level of sugar in their body. According to them, too much sugar in the body

reduces the sexual performance of a guy, so, they take aphrodisiacs whenever they realized

they have consumed things that could have increased their level of sugar in their blood. Some
 103

take it from time to time to ensure there are sexually fit always by not having too much sugar

in their blood.

Then, some, maybe just sometimes lack of self-confidence. If you feel like
you won't go that long yeah. Interview_2_Uniosun

if you are doing a cleansing exercise you hear if you are doing a cleansing
exercise and you feel like you have eaten a lot of nonsense in the last month
or so and you want to just cleanse your sugar sey you get you know sugar
decreases your lipid stuff so if you just want to be for sure sey gets you can
take that like once a day for like three days sey you get. That's good, that
should like perk you up for like next time you won't need to take anything
the next time you want to have sex you just performed. FGD_1_OAU

On the other hand, some students take aphrodisiacs as a remedy for their deficient

sexuality. They alluded that some people used it because they were suffering from premature

ejaculation, low sperm count, low libido, or inability to satisfy their partners. By using it, they

would be able to perform better. Some students used this energy drinks to improve their

sexual performance, those who used it for this purpose do not necessarily have any sexual

deficiency, just that they want to over-perform or perform better.

Then, other factors might be low libido, low sperm counts, having issues
with you know satisfying your partner stuff like that. FGD_2_Uniosun

Um, I think undergraduate used it a lot now. Sometimes because of

insecurities, sometimes because you know just you maybe want to over
perform, shey you get and sometimes is because you know, I mean, you no
wan fall your hand, sey you get that kind of thing. FGD_1_OAU

However, some students take aphrodisiacs to get high, those who used it for this

purpose specifically go for the alcoholic type which would make them intoxicated.

The alcoholic one first of all, sometimes some drinks people that drink take
it to get high for the alcoholic ones. FGD_2_Uniosun

The figure below shows various factors that are responsible for the consumption of

aphrodisiacs among undergraduates.

The excerpt highlights the association between alcoholic drinks and their potential for

intoxication rather than their aphrodisiac properties. This suggests that the usage of alcoholic
 104

beverages among undergraduates may be influenced by factors related to seeking altered

states of consciousness or recreational purposes, rather than solely for enhancing sexual

experiences.

Linking this with Figure 5.1, it is essential to consider the influence of recreational

drug use as a factor contributing to the usage of aphrodisiacs. The figure may encompass

factors such as prove manliness, remedy for sexual challenges, get high, reduction of body

sugar, boost confidence, and improve sexual performance. Understanding the interplay

between recreational drug use and the usage of aphrodisiacs provide comprehensive

understandings of the motivations behind their consumption among undergraduate students.

Figure 5.1: Factors Responsible for the Usage of Aphrodisiacs among Undergraduates
 105

5.4. Factors Influencing the Choice of Beverages

Table 5.6: Multinomial Logistic Regression showing Factors Influencing the Choice of
Beverages with Aphrodisiac claims
Factors influencing choice beverages Odds ratio 95% CI p-value
Adverts and hypes from media sources 0.451 0.234 – 0.871 0.018*
Recommendations or referrals from friends 0.598 0.356 – 1.005 0.032*
Contains contents perceived to increase libido 1.404 0.796 – 2.477 0.241
Desires to satisfy multiple partners 1.017 0.546 – 1.893 0.912
Early ejaculation 3.367 1.278 – 8.869 0.003*
Desires to sustain erection 6.665 3.053 – 14.551 0.000*
Dissatisfaction with current sexual performance 0.158 0.054 – 0.464 0.001*
Low libido 1.017 0.585 – 1.771 0.952
To achieve a bigger manhood size 0.790 0.466 – 1.342 0.384
To exact dominance over their sexual partner(s) 0.546 0.254 – 1.173 0.121
*Significant when p<0.05 at 95% confidence interval, unadjusted model

The results show the factors that have a statistically significant positive influence on

decision making processes regarding the choice of beverages among heterosexual male

undergraduates (with odds ratio and a p-value below the conventional threshold of 0.05).

While some other factors did not show a statistically significant positive influence, they still

have implications that can shed light on the broader context of beverage preferences and

individual behaviour on issues with sexual concerns.

Early ejaculation as a factor (Odds Ratio: 3.367, 95% CI: 1.278 - 8.869, p-value:

0.003) demonstrates a statistically significant positive influence. The odds ratio of 3.367

indicates that individuals experiencing early ejaculation are approximately 3.4 times more

likely to choose beverages with aphrodisiac claims compared to those who do not experience

early ejaculation. Desires to sustain erection (Odds Ratio: 6.665, 95% CI: 3.053 - 14.551, p-

value: 0.000) exhibits a statistically significant positive influence. The odds ratio of 6.665

suggests that individuals facing difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection are

approximately 6.7 times more likely to choose beverages with aphrodisiac claims compared
 106

to those without such difficulties. Another factor with positive significance is dissatisfaction

with current sexual performance (Odds Ratio: 0.158, 95% CI: 0.054 - 0.464, p-value: 0.001),

although this factor has an odds ratio below 1, indicating a negative association, it still

demonstrates a statistically significant positive influence. The odds ratio of 0.158 implies that

individuals experiencing difficulties in making a woman reach orgasm are approximately

0.16 times as likely to choose beverages with aphrodisiac claims compared to those who do

not face such difficulties.

Therefore, based on the statistical analysis, the factors with a positive influence on the

choice of beverages with aphrodisiac claims among heterosexual male undergraduates are

early ejaculation, difficulties in getting an erection, and difficulty in making a woman reach

orgasm. These result shows that individuals who encounter sexual challenges, such as early

ejaculation or difficulties in sexual performance, are more likely to choose beverages with

aphrodisiac claims as a potential solution.

On the other hand, factors such as adverts and hypes from media sources and

recommendations or referrals from friends show a statistically significant negative influence

on beverage choice. Heterosexual male undergraduates who frequently hear advertisements

and hypes about aphrodisiac products are less likely to choose these beverages, as are those

who receive recommendations or referrals from friends. These findings suggest a certain

degree of skepticism or critical evaluation among individuals towards the claims made by

advertisements and the influence of peer recommendations.

Furthermore, factors such as containing contents perceived to increase libido, desires

to satisfy multiple partners, low libido, achieving a bigger manhood size, and exact

dominance over sexual partners do not demonstrate statistically significant influences on

beverage choice among heterosexual male undergraduates.

These factors offer insights into various aspects such as advertising influence, health
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concerns, knowledge gaps, cultural norms, and power dynamics within relationships

especially in their decision-making processes on issues with sexual concerns.

The qualitative aspect explored other factors respondents considered to be influencing

the choice of beverages with aphrodisiac claims to be consumed, these factors include

availability and accessibility, experiences of the users, branding and marketing. Respondents

explained that beverages with aphrodisiac claims such as Origin bitter which is one of the

commonest ones that people consumed, is as a result of its availability and affordability in

most stores (supermarkets). Heterosexual male undergraduates consume it because they could

easily have access to it. On the other hand, herbal beverages with aphrodisiac claims are not

commonly consumed by the population of students under study because they are not as

available as others, nor are they easily accessible to students.

Personally, the most common one that I know, that I have seen around, in
fact that I have taking, most of my friends and me myself, origin bitters, it is
one of the commonest one that people mention but I feel the most accessible
or the commonest one you can get around is origin bitters, I feel most stores
has origin bitters. FGD_4_OAU
Experiences of the users is another factor responsible for the usage of certain

beverages among undergraduates. One of them explained that he had not seen it kill or harm

any of the users that is why he also settled for it. Another interviewee said the testimonies of

the users about a particular brand made more people to use it. In other words, when the users

share their experience, more people tend to also start using it.

Well, I don't, I don’t but if I will if I will consume anyone, I will consume
origin bitters because it is common and I have not seen it kill or harm
anybody. Interview_7_OAU

Branding and market strategies of the producers is another factor that interviewees

alluded to, they believed the choice of beverage is only a function of the branding and

marketing strategies. According to them, people are using the ones they are using because the
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producer had resources for branding and a better marketing strategy. In other words, herbal

one got less patronage due to branding and marketing strategy.

Well, I don’t think so, it’s branding, these are large corporation, they have
the resources to actually market you know brand, anything that a product
basically needs, they have the resources to put to that in place and they did.
FGD_1_OAU

Figure 5.2 shows the factors that are influencing the choice of beverages among

undergraduates.

Figure 5.2: Factors Influencing the Choice of Beverages

5.5. Notions of Responsible Consumption

This theme focuses on what is regarded as responsible consumption of alcoholic and

non-alcoholic beverages with aphrodisiacs among undergraduates, image building and

adverse effects of using aphrodisiac beverages among undergraduates.

5.5.1. Responsible Consumption of Beverages with Aphrodisiacs among

Undergraduates

Responsible consumption meant various things to undergraduates, some believed

responsible consumption of herbal type means using it as prescribed by the seller. Other

believed it means using it only when you need cleansing i.e. need to reduce sugar in your

body. Taking it once in a week is what constitute responsible consumption to others, while

some believed it means not using it every single time you want to have sexual intercourse.
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They opined that using it all the time would make one not to be able to impress their partner

they intend to impress.

If it's the herbal ones, the person selling it to you will even tell you that is
not likely something you use every day is not from sey you get, once you are
basically a cleansing thing once you are cleanse, you're cleanse until you
need cleansing again, don't use it. FGD_3_OAU

Responsible consumption should be like, average, maybe like, once a week.

It depends now. Interview_2_OAU

They also alluded that not drinking the alcoholic type to stupor is what constitute

responsible consumption. They further said it means taking the quantity that will not make

you lose control of yourself or be out of your normal senses. Another student said it means

not taking more than one bottle of whichever type you choose at a time. While another

opined that it means taking just the quantity that will make you perform. However, some

believed that one’s discretion should be used to judge it. They opined that one would know

when one is going to the extreme and he would stop.

If na all this bottle Alomo, just finish one bottle you don dey okay normal.
FGD_3_OAU

Well, consume responsibly drinking it when you want to have sex don't over
use above prescription or when it comes to the alcoholic, don't drink
irresponsibly, to the point of drinking too stupor and then when it comes to
the herbal ones, the roots and other, go according to the prescription. That
was given to you. FGD_2_Uniosun

I feel discretion matters. Discretion helps to know how much quantity to

consume. Interview_4_Uniosun

5.5.2. Image Building among Undergraduates through Consumption of Beverages with

Aphrodisiacs

The interviewees admitted that using aphrodisiac beverages make them feel like real

men, it boosts their ego, give them a sense of manliness, and helps them build masculinity.

They added that they do feel like king of sex or god of sex. They also said it builds their
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confidence among their friends because their friends would hear the news of their

performance and respect them for it.

They say they are the man kind of changes the way you look at yourself.
Look at yourself, like a sex god. Sex, sex king. FGD_2_OAU

Yes, it tells, that is what it tells, the psyche of a man. some men use it to
stroke their ego. FGD_2_OAU

It is a two-way confidence boost, you will have the confidence that you can
do well, and people that hear about it will spread the word. It is confidence
based. Interview_3_Uniosun

However, the interviewees did not fail to talk about the adverse effects of these types

of beverages as discussed below.

5.5.3. Adverse Effects of Using Aphrodisiac Beverages among Undergraduates

The adverse effects pointed out by the interviewees included low sperm count, loss of

appetite for food, premature ejaculation, addiction which results in not been able to perform

without it. They explained further that if you have configured your mind to depend on it, even

if nothing is wrong with your sexuality, you will not be able to perform because it is

registered in your mind that you cannot perform without it, so, you will not be able to

perform. In addition, not using it beat down the ego of habitual users, so, they will not have

confidence in their ability to perform until they use it. In a nutshell, it has psychologically

effects on the users.

…when you are caught without them. My guy you won't last at all because
the truth is every time you will because your brain is already built to think
that like every time you want to have sex you have to like buy a Japata
bottle, so when you're caught without a Japata bottle, your brain w bill just
be resting like guy you no give me Japata now, I no fit work. FGD_2_OAU

Yes, the dependency thing, once you trick your mind into believing that you
can only perform when you take it, if you don't take it even if nothing is
wrong with you, your mind won't perform. The dependency is very real.
Interview_8_OAU

You might have serious health problems, it might affect your sperm counts,
can affect your ejaculation. And you know, it can even affect your eating
circle once though. FGD_2_Uniosun
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The excerpts highlight several important points regarding the usage of aphrodisiacs

among undergraduate students. First, there is a discussion about the psychological

dependency on aphrodisiacs, where individuals believe they can only perform sexually if they

consume these substances. This dependency can lead to performance anxiety and a reliance

on aphrodisiacs to achieve sexual satisfaction.

Furthermore, linking with the figure 3 below, which provide a visual representation of

the potential risks associated with the usage of these substances. They indicate that excessive

usage of aphrodisiacs can lead to health problems such as lower sperm count, premature

ejaculation, loss of appetite, and addiction. These effects suggest that the consumption of

aphrodisiacs may have negative consequences on both physical and psychological well-

being.

The figure 3 below presents adverse effects of using aphrodisiacs among

undergraduates.

Figure 3: Adverse effects of using aphrodisiac beverages among undergraduates

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Understanding the adverse effects of aphrodisiac usage is crucial in raising awareness

among undergraduate students about the potential risks and encouraging responsible

decision-making regarding their consumption.

5.6 Discussion of Findings

According to the findings, there is a diversity of perspectives among the respondents

regarding what sexual performance means. Some emphasized physical aspects such as the

ability to hit one's partner hard, engage in multiple rounds, and last long during intercourse.

Others focused on satisfying their partner, showing skills, experience, and using different

styles or techniques. These notions of sexual performance reflect the influence of societal

expectations of masculinity, performance, and satisfaction.

The findings also highlight the significance of sexual satisfaction in the participants'

understanding of sexual performance. Sexual satisfaction is associated with fulfilling the

partner's desires, reaching orgasm, and engaging in pleasurable sexual activities. It is worth

noting that sexual satisfaction is seen as a two-way process, involving the mutual fulfilment

of both partners' needs and desires.

In terms of sexual enhancement, the findings suggest that some participants believe in

the use of aphrodisiac beverages as a means to enhance sexual performance. They view these

beverages as potential aids to improve stamina, prolong intercourse, and increase pleasure.

This aligns with the cultural beliefs and media representations that promote the use of

aphrodisiacs for enhanced sexual experiences.

From a sexual script perspective, the findings demonstrate how cultural norms and

societal expectations shape individuals' conceptions of sexual performance and desires for

enhancement. The emphasis on physical prowess, stamina, and the ability to satisfy partners
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reflects the influence of masculine scripts that emphasize sexual performance as a measure of

masculinity and validation.

Moreover, social practices theory helps us understand the behaviours and routines

surrounding sexual enhancement and the consumption of aphrodisiac beverages. The findings

reveal that the consumption of these beverages is influenced by factors such as beliefs about

sexual performance, peer discussions, and cultural notions of sexual pleasure. These practices

are interconnected with broader social norms, media representations, and cultural scripts

surrounding masculinity and sexual enhancement.

The findings presented in the responses of the interviewees shed light on the concept

of sexual performance and enhancement among undergraduates. Based on the responses,

sexual satisfaction is a significant factor for undergraduates. Some interviewees expressed

their desire for sexual gratification and mentioned fantasies such as threesomes and engaging

with pornography actresses. These fantasies indicate a desire for novelty and exploration in

sexual experiences. The emphasis on sexual performance is implied in the responses that

mention desires for sexual satisfaction and fantasies. This revealed that there exists a

perceived importance placed on sexual prowess and the ability to fulfil one's partner's desires.

In relation to relevant literature, studies have explored various aspects of sexual

performance and enhancement among young adults. For example, research has shown that

media, including pornography, can influence sexual attitudes and behaviours, potentially

shaping individuals' fantasies and expectations (Hald, 2006). Additionally, studies have found

that individuals may have differing motivations for seeking sexual enhancement or

performance enhancement products, ranging from personal satisfaction to meeting societal

expectations (Harte & Meston, 2012). The responses provided by the interviewees revealed

that sexual enhancement is a factor of interest among undergraduates especially when they
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seek to make a statement about their ability to sexually satisfy their partner and themselves,

as well as boost their hegemonic masculinity.

It is crucial to recognize that sexual preferences, fantasies, and attitudes toward same-

sex relationships can vary widely among individuals. Some interviewees expressed negative

views or phobias toward same-sex relationships, while others were indifferent or accepting.

These attitudes highlight the diversity of perspectives among undergraduates regarding sexual

orientation and same-sex relationships.

In the perception of the respondents, sexual performance encompasses various factors

such as duration of intercourse, the number of rounds, the ability to engage in interesting

foreplay, and knowing the right time and place for physical intimacy. The responses stressed

that some individuals place importance on lasting a long time during sexual intercourse,

while others prioritize the number of rounds. The ability to satisfy a partner and make them

feel good is also considered a crucial aspect of sexual performance.

Different views were expressed on how sexual performance should be measured.

Some believed it is based on the level of satisfaction both partners experience during

intercourse. Others mentioned factors such as the ability to stress the woman during sex,

technique or style of sexual intercourse, and the duration of sexual activity. Communication

between partners during intercourse was emphasized as a way to measure and enhance sexual

performance, allowing for necessary adjustments and ensuring both parties are satisfied.

Communication and sexual satisfaction have been found to be crucial components of sexual

experiences (Mark, 2017). Open communication between partners can lead to increased

sexual satisfaction and overall relationship satisfaction (McNulty & Widman, 2014).

Additionally, research has suggested that sexual satisfaction is influenced by individual

factors, relationship dynamics, and sexual communication (Byers, 2005; Mark, 2017).
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Therefore, the emphasis on communication during intercourse by the interviewees aligns with

these findings.

In terms of sexual enhancement, specific suggestions or recommendations were not

provided. However, they mentioned the importance of technique, exploring a partner's body,

and satisfying their fantasies. And they are considered as some of the important ways to

achieve sexual satisfaction. Factors such as physical health, emotional well-being, and sexual

self-confidence can also contribute to sexual satisfaction (Hendrick, Hendrick, & Reich,

2006). These factors, according to the findings, play a role in the perception and pursuit of

sexual enhancement among heterosexual undergraduate males.

Findings revealed that heterosexual undergraduate males employ various strategies to

enhance their sexual performance. These strategies include the use of specific drinks with

aphrodisiac claims like Japata, Burantashi, and other energy drinks, regular exercise,

communication and understanding of their partner's sexual needs, consumption of sweets to

increase sensitivity, and the potential use of drugs and herbs.

These findings can be understood in relation to the concept of sexual performance and

enhancement among heterosexual undergraduate males. Sexual performance is often

associated with masculinity and societal expectations of virility and sexual prowess. Men

may feel pressure to meet these expectations, leading them to seek ways to enhance their

sexual performance. The use of drinks, drugs, and herbs to enhance sexual performance can

be seen as part of a broader cultural narrative that emphasizes the importance of male sexual

prowess and pleasure. While some energy drinks may contain ingredients like caffeine that

can temporarily increase alertness, there is limited evidence to affirm that they directly

improve sexual performance (Braun et al., 2013). These substances are perceived to provide

physical and physiological effects that enhance sexual experiences. The belief in their
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effectiveness may stem from cultural beliefs, anecdotal evidence, or popular media portrayals

that associate them with increased libido or stamina.

Regular exercise, as mentioned by the respondents, is also linked to sexual

performance enhancement. Exercise has been shown to have positive effects on overall

health, including cardiovascular fitness, hormone regulation, improved self-image, and

increased testosterone levels (Hackett et al., 2016). These factors can indirectly contribute to

better sexual performance and confidence (Kratzik et al., 2017). Engaging in physical activity

can also promote overall well-being, body confidence, and stamina, which can contribute to a

more satisfying sexual experience (Henderson et al., 2017).

Furthermore, the emphasis on communication and understanding with a partner

reflects the recognition of the importance of relational and emotional aspects of sexual

experiences. Open communication allows individuals to better understand their partner's

desires and preferences, fostering a more satisfying sexual relationship. This perspective

aligns with research highlighting the importance of sexual communication for sexual

satisfaction (Byers, 2005; Mark, 2017).

It is important to acknowledge that the effectiveness and safety of the mentioned

strategies and substances may vary. Some substances, such as herbs and beverages with

aphrodisiac claims, not have sufficient scientific evidence to support their claimed

aphrodisiac properties or may carry potential health risks. The reliance on external substances

to enhance sexual performance should be critically examined and balanced with a holistic

approach to sexual well-being that considers physical, emotional, and relational factors.

The mention of herbal remedies and aphrodisiacs such as Japata and Burantashi

indicates a belief in the potential of natural substances to enhance sexual performance.

However, it is important to acknowledge that the effectiveness and safety of the mentioned

strategies and substances may vary. Limited scientific evidence exists regarding the
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effectiveness of most herbal remedies in enhancing sexual performance, therefore, the

reliance on external substances to enhance sexual performance should be critically examined

and balanced with a holistic approach to sexual well-being that considers physical, emotional,

and relational factors (Adimoelja, 2000).

It was indicated that there is a prevalence of aphrodisiac consumption among

heterosexual undergraduate males, with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options being used.

The mention of various aphrodisiacs like Japata, Koroki, Alomo bitters, Pelorie, and

Jekonmo highlights the diverse range of substances believed to enhance sexual performance

and masculinity. Additionally, the references to Viagra, Tramadol, and Alabukun indicate the

use of pharmaceutical drugs as perceived aphrodisiacs.

From a sociological perspective, the consumption of aphrodisiacs by heterosexual

undergraduate males can be understood as influenced by social and cultural factors. Societal

expectations of masculinity often place emphasis on sexual prowess and performance, which

may contribute to the desire for substances perceived to enhance these qualities. The belief

that consuming aphrodisiacs can boost sexual performance and masculinity aligns with

notions of male dominance and virility within the cultural context.

The popularity and widespread use of aphrodisiacs among undergraduate males can

be attributed to several factors. Peer influence and social norms play a significant role, as

mentioned in the interviews. Observing friends and peers using aphrodisiacs, sharing

experiences, and discussing their perceived benefits can create a sense of social pressure to

engage in similar behaviours. Furthermore, the portrayal of aphrodisiac consumption in

popular media, such as music, movies, and advertising, may also contribute to its

normalization and desirability.

It is essential to note that the actual effectiveness and safety of many aphrodisiacs,

especially those without scientific evidence, are debatable. The reliance on substances to
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boost sexual performance and masculinity may overlook the importance of open

communication, consent, emotional connection, and mutual satisfaction in sexual

relationships.

From a broader perspective, the consumption of aphrodisiacs reflects the complex

interplay of culture, gender norms, and individual agency. The perception that aphrodisiacs

can enhance sexual performance and masculinity is shaped by social constructions of gender

and the desire to conform to societal expectations. Understanding these dynamics can help

develop comprehensive approaches to sexual health education, emphasizing consent,

communication, and the importance of emotional and relational aspects of sexual

experiences.

The findings also revealed insights into the quantity of aphrodisiacs consumed by

heterosexual undergraduate males and provide a basis for sociological analysis regarding the

concept of sexual performance and enhancement among this demographic. The quantity of

aphrodisiacs consumed varied among the heterosexual male undergraduates. They mentioned

consuming a whole plastic bottle or sachet at once, with bottle sizes ranging from 10cl to 35cl

and sachet sizes around 10ml to 15ml. The intake of these substances was often measured

using a shot cup, typically one or two shots at a time based on the prescription given by the

seller or individual discretion.

The consumption of larger quantities sometimes was influenced by perceived beliefs

about the effectiveness of aphrodisiacs. It reflects a desire to maximize the potential effects

and enhance sexual performance. This pattern aligns with the notion of more is better or the

belief that a higher dosage will lead to better results (Acosta et al., 2020), even though the

scientific efficacy of these substances may vary.

Additionally, some respondents mentioned mixing aphrodisiacs with other drinks to

increase their effectiveness. This practice highlights the belief that combining different
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substances can amplify their impact on sexual performance (Ali et al., 2013). Similar to the

concept of drug synergism (Roell et al., 2017), individuals may perceive that the combination

of aphrodisiacs and other drinks will yield greater benefits than consuming them separately.

The fact that respondents mentioned not using aphrodisiacs every time they engage in

sexual activities indicates an awareness of the potential risks associated with relying solely on

these substances. They expressed concerns about becoming dependent on aphrodisiacs and

being unable to perform without them. This suggests a nuanced understanding that sexual

performance and satisfaction should not solely rely on external aids but should also involve

intrinsic factors such as emotional connection, communication, and overall well-being.

The notion of using aphrodisiacs to make an impression or prove one's strength to a

partner underscores the sociocultural pressure associated with sexual performance and

masculinity. It reflects the desire to meet societal expectations and reinforce dominant norms

of virility and sexual prowess. Moreover, the mention of certain aphrodisiacs being used

daily as a flush system suggests that some individuals perceive them as medicinal or

beneficial for overall health. This perception may stem from cultural beliefs, traditional

practices, or marketing strategies that position these substances as having broader health

benefits beyond sexual enhancement.

In sociological terms, the findings illustrate how the consumption of aphrodisiacs

among heterosexual undergraduate males is influenced by cultural and social factors. These

factors include societal norms regarding sexual performance, masculine identity, the

commodification of sexual enhancement products, and individual agency in seeking

strategies to meet societal expectations. It is important to note that the effectiveness and

safety of aphrodisiacs vary greatly, and their usage should be critically examined.

The timing of aphrodisiac consumption before sexual activity, typically 30 minutes to

an hour, indicates a deliberate attempt to enhance sexual performance. This suggests that
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individuals perceive aphrodisiacs as a means to prepare themselves physically and mentally

for sexual encounters. The temporal association between aphrodisiac consumption and sexual

activity reflects the desire to optimize performance and achieve desired outcomes. The

reported experiences of feeling in the mood for sex and experiencing penile erection align

with the expected effects of aphrodisiacs. These outcomes reinforce the perception that

aphrodisiacs play a role in enhancing sexual desire and physiological responses (Ali et al.,

2013). However, it is important to consider that the placebo effect or psychological factors

may also contribute to these experiences.

The contrasting experience of one participant who reported stomach disturbance and

diarrhoea highlights the potential adverse effects of aphrodisiac usage. This finding

emphasizes the importance of understanding the potential risks and side effects associated

with these substances. It also suggests that individuals may have varying physiological

responses to aphrodisiacs, further underscoring the need for caution and informed decision-

making.

The mention of alcoholic energy drinks weakening the body and dampening sexual

performance indicates the complex interplay between substances and individual bodily

responses. This finding highlights the multifaceted nature of sexual performance and the fact

that different substances may interact differently with the body, influencing sexual

experiences positively or negatively. The accounts of individuals experiencing prolonged

penile erection, which can lead to pain, align with medical knowledge regarding priapism.

Priapism is a condition characterized by prolonged and painful penile erection unrelated to

sexual stimulation (Levey et al., 2014). This occurrence may be a result of excessive

aphrodisiac consumption or an adverse reaction to the substances. It reinforces the

importance of understanding the potential risks and seeking appropriate medical advice when

engaging in practices that may impact sexual health.

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These findings demonstrate the influence of social norms and expectations on the use

of aphrodisiacs among heterosexual undergraduate males. The desire to enhance sexual

performance and impress sexual partners reflects the pressures associated with traditional

masculine roles and societal expectations surrounding sexual prowess. The use of

aphrodisiacs can be seen as a strategy to conform to these expectations and assert one's

masculinity within a sexual context.

The desire to prove masculinity and earn social status among peers and potential

sexual partners emerges as a significant factor. The participants mentioned using aphrodisiacs

to gain street credit and be rated highly among women. This aligns with the sociological

concept of hegemonic masculinity, where men strive to conform to dominant masculine

ideals and seek validation from others (Connell & Messerschmidt, 2005). The fear of being

talked down by women and the need to assert their manliness contribute to the usage of

aphrodisiacs as a means of performing well in bed and earning respect.

The notion of confidence and ego enhancement is another driving force behind

aphrodisiac usage. Undergraduates mentioned using aphrodisiacs to boost their self-assurance

and overcome doubts about their sexual performance. This aligns with sociological

perspectives on the construction of masculinity, where confidence and sexual prowess are

often intertwined (Sweeney, 2014). By consuming aphrodisiacs, individuals aim to alleviate

their insecurities and ensure they can satisfy their partners, reinforcing their own self-image

and social standing.

The motivation to use aphrodisiacs as a remedy for sexual challenges further

underscores the emphasis placed on sexual performance and satisfaction (Levey et al., 2014).

Participants mentioned addressing issues such as premature ejaculation, low sperm count, and

low libido through aphrodisiac consumption. This highlights the societal pressure to meet

certain sexual expectations and the role of aphrodisiacs as a means of overcoming perceived
 122

deficiencies. The pursuit of enhanced sexual performance aligns with the societal emphasis

on sexual pleasure and the importance placed on sexual satisfaction in intimate relationships.

Additionally, the use of aphrodisiacs for recreational purposes, specifically seeking an

intoxicating effect, suggests the influence of cultural and social norms surrounding substance

use. This reflects a broader pattern of substance-related behaviours among young adults and

the association of substances with pleasure and altered states of consciousness. It also

underscores the role of peer influence and the desire to engage in activities perceived as

pleasurable and socially exciting.

These findings highlight the complex interplay between societal expectations, gender

norms, self-perception, and sexual performance among heterosexual undergraduate males.

The usage of aphrodisiacs can be seen as a response to societal pressures and a means of

navigating the performance-based expectations surrounding sexuality. It also underscores the

importance of considering the sociocultural context when examining sexual behaviour and

the diverse motivations that drive individuals' choices in seeking sexual enhancement.

Findings suggest that the choice of beverages with aphrodisiac claims is influenced by

the sexual challenges and concerns experienced by heterosexual male undergraduates.

Factors such as early ejaculation, difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection, and

dissatisfaction with sexual performance demonstrate a statistically significant positive

influence on beverage choice. These findings indicate that individuals who face sexual

challenges or perceive themselves as having performance issues are more likely to seek

solutions through the consumption of beverages with aphrodisiac claims. This aligns with the

sexual script theory, which suggests that individuals are influenced by societal expectations

and seek remedies to enhance their sexual performance and experiences.

Furthermore, the negative influence of factors such as advertisements and peer

recommendations on beverage choice reflects a degree of skepticism or critical evaluation

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among the heterosexual male undergraduates. This skepticism may be attributed to the social

practice theory, which emphasizes how individuals' behaviours and choices are shaped by

social contexts, interactions, and power dynamics. The findings suggest that the influence of

advertisements and recommendations from friends is not significant in this context, indicating

that individuals rely on their own evaluations and considerations rather than blindly following

external influences.

The qualitative aspect of the findings provides additional insights into the sociological

aspects of beverage choice. Availability and accessibility emerged as important factors

influencing the consumption of beverages with aphrodisiac claims. The prevalence of certain

brands, such as Origin Bitter, was attributed to their easy accessibility in stores, making them

a common choice among heterosexual male undergraduates. This aligns with sociological

theories on consumer behaviour, where availability and convenience influence product

choices (Ha et al., 2014). This highlights the influence of social practices and cultural norms

related to convenience and availability. The emphasis on accessibility suggests that

individuals opt for beverages that are easily obtainable, reflecting the practical considerations

and convenience in their decision-making process.

Moreover, experiences of users and branding/marketing strategies were identified as

influential factors. Positive experiences shared by users increased the likelihood of others

trying a particular brand, indicating the significance of social interactions and shared

knowledge in shaping consumption patterns. The emphasis on branding and marketing

strategies suggests that the producers' resources and efforts in promoting their products play a

role in shaping consumer choices. This aligns with the social practice theory, as it

acknowledges the influence of economic factors, power dynamics, and cultural

representations in shaping consumption practices. This is supported by sociological theories

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on the power of marketing and advertising in shaping consumer behaviour (Rehman et al.,

2022).

Generally, the findings suggest that the choice of beverages with aphrodisiac claims

among heterosexual male undergraduates are influenced by factors related to sexual

performance, availability and accessibility, user experiences, and branding/marketing

strategies. These factors can be understood within the frameworks of sexual script theory and

social practice theory, which shed light on the complex interplay between individual

behaviour, social norms, cultural influences, and power dynamics in the context of sexual

health and consumption patterns.

The findings on responsible consumption of beverages with aphrodisiacs among

heterosexual undergraduate males provide valuable insights into the social practices

surrounding sexual performance and enhancement. The diverse understandings of responsible

consumption among undergraduates highlight the social construction of norms and

expectations surrounding aphrodisiac use. Some students view responsible consumption as

adhering to the seller's instructions or following a prescribed regimen. This suggests that

individuals are influenced by external authorities and market-driven narratives that position

aphrodisiacs as products with specific guidelines for use. This aligns with the notion of

external influences shaping individual behaviours and practices within a social context

(Warde, 2005).

Additionally, the finding that some undergraduates associate responsible consumption

with using aphrodisiacs only when necessary, such as for cleansing or reducing sugar levels,

reflects the influence of cultural beliefs and traditional notions of purity or bodily health. The

use of aphrodisiacs for cleansing purposes indicates the intersection between sexual

enhancement and broader notions of well-being and bodily purity within specific cultural

contexts (Lupton, 1999). Also, the idea that responsible consumption involves not using
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aphrodisiacs every single time one desires sexual intercourse suggests an awareness of the

potential drawbacks of excessive reliance on these substances. This points to a negotiation

between the desire for enhanced sexual performance and the need to maintain authenticity

and spontaneity in sexual encounters. It reflects an understanding that overuse of aphrodisiacs

may lead to dependence or a perceived loss of sexual potency and authenticity in sexual

interactions (Giddens, 1992).

Moreover, the emphasis on moderation and self-control in the consumption of

alcoholic aphrodisiacs reflects the negotiation of social norms surrounding masculinity,

intoxication, and sexual behaviour. Responsible consumption, in this context, involves

consuming quantities that do not impair one's ability to maintain control over one's senses

and behaviours. This aligns with sociological perspectives on the regulation of masculinities

and the negotiation of social expectations related to alcohol consumption and sexual

performance (Connell, 2005). The role of discretion, as highlighted in the findings,

underscores the agency and self-regulation exercised by individuals when it comes to

responsible consumption. Discretion enables individuals to assess their own tolerance levels

and make informed decisions about the quantity of aphrodisiacs to consume. This resonates

with the sociological understanding of agency as individuals actively interpreting and

navigating social structures to shape their own practices and behaviours (Archer, 2000).

The findings on responsible consumption of beverages with aphrodisiacs among

heterosexual undergraduate males provide valuable sociological insights into the social

practices surrounding sexual performance and enhancement. These findings illustrate the

dynamic interplay between social norms, cultural beliefs, and individual agency in shaping

consumption patterns and behaviours related to aphrodisiac use. Social practice theories have

contributed a deeper understanding of how undergraduates negotiate societal expectations

while seeking to enhance their sexual experiences.

 126

Further findings revealed that consuming aphrodisiac beverages contributes to the

construction of masculinity and the development of self-perceptions as real men. The

consumption of these beverages is associated with feelings of increased ego, manliness, and

confidence in sexual abilities, often resulting in individuals considering themselves as kings

of sex or gods of sex. This finding aligns with sociological theories on gender performance,

suggesting that individuals engage in practices and behaviours to conform to societal ideals

of masculinity (Connell, 2005). The use of aphrodisiacs becomes a way of reinforcing and

embodying traditional notions of masculinity, thereby shaping their self-image and

perceptions of sexual prowess.

Furthermore, the respondents mentioned that their confidence is enhanced through the

consumption of aphrodisiac beverages because their friends hear about their improved sexual

performance, leading to admiration and respect. This aspect highlights the social dimension

of sexual performance and the role of social validation in shaping individual behaviour.

Social practice theories, such as Bourdieu's theory of habitus, emphasize how individuals'

behaviours are influenced by social norms, expectations, and the desire for social recognition

(Bourdieu, 1977). In this context, the consumption of aphrodisiacs is driven not only by

personal desires but also by the need to conform to societal expectations of masculinity and

gain social approval from peers.

However, it is crucial to consider the adverse effects associated with the use of

aphrodisiac beverages mentioned by the interviewees. These include low sperm count, loss of

appetite, premature ejaculation, and psychological dependency. The interviewees explain that

if individuals condition their minds to rely on these beverages, even when there is nothing

wrong with their sexuality, they may experience difficulties in performing without them due

to the psychological association formed. This psychological dependency not only affects their

confidence but also has physiological implications. Chronic reliance on aphrodisiacs may
 127

lead to detrimental health effects, such as decreased sperm count and disrupted ejaculation.

These findings resonate with sociological perspectives on medicalization and the social

construction of sexual dysfunction. The cultural discourse surrounding sexual performance

often medicalizes sexual problems, presenting pharmaceutical solutions as necessary for

achieving desired sexual outcomes (Lupton, 1999). The psychological dependency observed

among the respondents can be understood as a consequence of internalizing this discourse

and believing that external aids are required to meet societal expectations of sexual

performance.
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CHAPTER SIX

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This chapter starts by presenting the summary of the entire study. It moves on to draw

conclusions from the major findings and ends with providing recommendations.

6.1 Summary
Sexual health and function are widely recognized as important aspects of overall well-

being, and people have always sought ways to increase sexual desire and maintain sexual

drive. Sex serves multiple purposes, including reproduction, pleasure, relaxation, and

establishing connections and relationships. Masculinity, as a social construct, is fluid and

performed in various contexts. The consumption of aphrodisiac beverages and sexual

enhancement products can be seen as a way to express, enhance, or compensate for one's

masculine identity.

Studies on aphrodisiac beverages and masculinity have yielded diverse findings,

depending on cultural and socio-economic contexts. Some studies suggest that university

students consume aphrodisiac beverages out of curiosity, peer pressure, experimentation, or

recreational purposes. Other studies indicate that it may be motivated by perceived or

experienced sexual dysfunction or dissatisfaction, as well as psychological factors such as

low self-esteem, anxiety, stress, or depression. Therefore, this study aims to explore

conceptions of sexual performance and sexual enhancement, investigate the rate of

consumption of aphrodisiacs, examine factors influencing the choice of brands, and

interrogate notions of responsible consumption.

The review section focused on current and relevant literature to provide a solid

premise for the study. The section consisted of ten main and sub-themes, including the

normativity of heterosexuality and sexual performance, normativity of heterosexuality, sexual

performance, masculinity, sexual enhancement, and sexual performance. Another part of the
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review section also addressed symbols of masculinity and sexual enhancement, media

representation of sexual enhancement and masculinity, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages

in the Nigerian market, media promotion through branding, marketing and labelling of

aphrodisiac beverages, contexts, rationales, and practices associated with sexual

enhancement, consumption of alcoholic beverages among young adults and implications for

sexual health. The review of these themes and sub-themes uncovered pertinent gaps that

further call for both quantitative and qualitative studies, thereby justifying the focus of this

study.

This study employs social practice theory to explain notions of masculinities and

sexual enhancement practices among young males in urban spaces. The propositions of the

theory are stated and applied in line with the focus of this study. Applying social practice

theories helps to understand that notions of sexual enhancement and the consumption of

aphrodisiac beverages among heterosexual male undergraduates are not solely individual

choices but are shaped by social and cultural factors. These practices are influenced by

broader social norms, cultural expectations, and institutional influences related to masculinity

and sexual performance. By examining the practices and social context in which they occur,

we gain insights into how these behaviours are shaped, reproduced, or challenged within

society.

The research design adopted for this study is a concurrent mixed-method research

design to investigate the conceptions, consumption, factors, and notions surrounding sexual

enhancement and the use of beverages with aphrodisiac claims among heterosexual male

undergraduate students. The approach involves the adoption of both qualitative and

quantitative approaches to data collection and analysis. The study was carried out in two

universities within Osun state: Obafemi Awolowo University and Osun State University. The

target population was heterosexual male undergraduate students, out of whom six sections of
 130

focus group discussions with about 39 participants and 12 interviews were conducted, and

400 questionnaires were administered online through the use of Google Forms. All the data

collected were analysed using the appropriate analytical techniques. ATLAS.ti was employed

in analysing the qualitative data, while STATA was used to analyse the quantitative data

collected. Thematic analysis was used to synthesize the analysed data accordingly. The

interpretation was done thematically, and findings were discussed critically.

6.2 Key Findings

The key findings of the study are listed below:
 The findings presented shed light on the concept of sexual performance and enhancement

among heterosexual undergraduate males. These findings indicate that sexual satisfaction

is a significant factor for heterosexual young adults, with a perceived importance placed

on sexual prowess and the ability to fulfil their partner's desires. The desire for novelty

and exploration in sexual experiences was also evident, with some respondents expressing

fantasies such as threesomes and engaging with pornography actresses.

 The findings align with relevant literature that explores various aspects of sexual

performance and enhancement among young adults. Research has shown that media,

including pornography, can influenc]e sexual attitudes and behaviours, potentially

shaping individuals' fantasies and expectations. Studies have also found that individuals

may have different motivations for seeking sexual enhancement, ranging from personal

satisfaction to meeting societal expectations.

 Communication between partners during intercourse was emphasized as a way to

measure and enhance sexual performance, allowing for necessary adjustments and

ensuring both parties are satisfied. Open communication and sexual satisfaction have

been found to be crucial components of sexual experiences. The emphasis on

communication during intercourse by the participants aligns with these findings.

 131

 Regarding sexual enhancement strategies, the interviewees mentioned the importance of

technique, exploring a partner's body, and satisfying their fantasies. Factors such as

physical health, emotional well-being, and sexual self-confidence were also considered

important contributors to sexual satisfaction. Regular exercise was mentioned as a

strategy to enhance sexual performance, as it can improve overall health, hormone

regulation, self-image, and increase testosterone levels.

 The consumption of aphrodisiacs among heterosexual young male adults was prevalent,

with various substances believed to enhance sexual performance and masculinity. The

popularity of aphrodisiacs can be attributed to social and cultural factors, including

societal norms regarding sexual performance and masculine identity. The consumption of

larger quantities and mixing aphrodisiacs with other drinks reflects the belief that more is

better and that combinations of substances can amplify their impact.

 The use of aphrodisiacs among heterosexual undergraduate males is influenced by social

and cultural factors, including societal norms, peer influence, and media portrayals. It

reflects the desire to conform to societal expectations of sexual performance and

masculinity. The temporal association between aphrodisiac consumption and sexual

activity indicates a deliberate attempt to enhance performance, but it is important to

consider the potential placebo effect and individual physiological responses.

 The findings also highlight the interplay of confidence, ego enhancement, and societal

validation in the use of aphrodisiacs. The desire to prove masculinity, gain social status,

and overcome sexual challenges contributes to the usage of these substances. The

recreational use of aphrodisiacs suggests the influence of cultural and social norms

surrounding substance use.

In summary, the findings emphasize the importance of sexual satisfaction and

performance among heterosexual undergraduate males. The use of aphrodisiacs and other
 132

strategies to enhance sexual performance reflects the influence of societal expectations,

cultural beliefs, and individual desires for validation and confidence. It is crucial to consider

the effectiveness, safety, and holistic approach to sexual well-being when exploring strategies

for sexual enhancement.

6.3 Conclusion

This research examines the attitudes and behaviours of heterosexual undergraduate

males regarding sexual performance and enhancement. Media, particularly pornography,

influences their fantasies and expectations, shaping their attitudes and actions. Seeking sexual

enhancement is driven by personal satisfaction and societal expectations, aiming to satisfy

partners and enhance masculinity. Measurement of sexual performance varies, with some

focusing on mutual satisfaction and others considering factors like duration, technique, and

communication. Open communication between partners is crucial for sexual and relationship

satisfaction. Strategies for enhancing performance include aphrodisiac drinks, exercise,

understanding partner's needs, sensitivity-increasing sweets, and potential drug or herb use.

However, the effectiveness and safety of these approaches should be evaluated carefully.

Consumption of aphrodisiacs reflects social and cultural influences, emphasizing societal

expectations of masculine sexual prowess. Deliberate consumption of aphrodisiacs is seen

before sexual activity, with reported effects aligning with expectations, although placebo and

individual responses should be considered. Motivations for aphrodisiac use include peer

influence, media portrayals, early ejaculation, desire to sustain erection, dissatisfaction with

current sexual performance, availability/accessibility, and beliefs about the effectiveness of

these substances. This research highlights the role of media, communication, and holistic

approaches to sexual well-being.

 133

6.4 Recommendations
Based on the findings of the study, here are some recommendations to mitigate the

effects and promote a healthier approach to sexual performance and enhancement among

heterosexual undergraduate males:

Comprehensive sexual education: Implement comprehensive sexual education programs that

go beyond basic biological information and include topics such as consent, communication,

healthy relationships, and understanding the influence of media on sexual attitudes and

behaviours. Provide accurate and evidence-based information about aphrodisiacs, their

effectiveness, and potential risks.

Critical media literacy: Incorporate media literacy education to help individuals critically

analyse and question the messages and portrayals of sexuality in pornography and other

media sources. Encourage individuals to develop realistic expectations about sexual

experiences and challenge stereotypes and unrealistic standards.

Foster open communication: Encourage open and non-judgmental communication about sex

and sexuality. Teach individuals the importance of discussing desires, boundaries, and

consent with their partners, emphasizing mutual pleasure and satisfaction.

4. Promote holistic sexual well-being: Emphasize the importance of overall well-being,

including physical, emotional, and relational aspects of sexual experiences. Encourage

individuals to prioritize self-care, maintain healthy lifestyles, and build meaningful

connections with their partners beyond purely sexual encounters.

Evidence-based information: Provide accurate and evidence-based information about

aphrodisiacs and other sexual enhancement products. Highlight the lack of scientific evidence

supporting their effectiveness and potential health risks. Encourage individuals to consult

healthcare professionals for guidance on sexual health and enhancement options.

 134

Address traditional gender norms: Address societal expectations and stereotypes surrounding

masculinity and sexual prowess. Promote a more inclusive and diverse understanding of

masculinity that emphasizes emotional intelligence, empathy, and healthy relationships rather

than solely focusing on performance.

Research and awareness: Support and promote further research on sexual health, sexual

enhancement, and the effects of aphrodisiacs to better understand their efficacy and potential

risks. Increase awareness about evidence-based resources and available support services for

sexual health concerns.

By implementing these recommendations, it is possible to create a more informed,

inclusive, and healthier approach to sexual performance and enhancement among

heterosexual undergraduate males.

6.5 Contributions to Knowledge

The study makes several key contributions to the body of knowledge on sexual health

and the use of aphrodisiacs among heterosexual male undergraduates:

Understanding of Sexual Performance and Enhancement: The findings shed light on the

concept of sexual performance and enhancement among heterosexual undergraduate males. It

provides insight into the importance placed on sexual satisfaction, sexual prowess, and

fulfilling partner desires among young adults. The study expands our understanding of the

factors influencing sexual experiences and the desire for novelty and exploration.

Influence of Media and Societal Expectations: The study aligns with existing literature on the

influence of media, including pornography, on sexual attitudes and behaviours. It highlights

the role of media in shaping sexual fantasies and expectations. Additionally, the research

contributes to the understanding of how societal expectations can influence individuals'

motivations for seeking sexual enhancement.

 135

Communication and Sexual Satisfaction: The emphasis on communication between partners

during intercourse as a means to measure and enhance sexual performance provides valuable

insights. The findings underscore the importance of open communication and sexual

satisfaction as crucial components of sexual experiences among heterosexual male

undergraduates.

Strategies for Sexual Enhancement: The study explores various strategies for sexual

enhancement mentioned by the participants, such as focusing on techniques, exploring a

partner's body, and satisfying their fantasies. It also highlights the significance of factors like

physical health, emotional well-being, and sexual self-confidence in achieving sexual

satisfaction. The emphasis on regular exercise as a strategy for enhancing sexual performance

contributes to our understanding of the link between physical health and sexual well-being.

Aphrodisiac Consumption Patterns: The research reveals the prevalent consumption of

aphrodisiacs among heterosexual male undergraduates and the substances believed to

enhance sexual performance and masculinity. It provides insights into the cultural and social

factors influencing aphrodisiac use and the temporal association between aphrodisiac

consumption and sexual activity.

Societal Influence on Aphrodisiac Use: The study highlights the interplay of confidence, ego

enhancement, and societal validation in the use of aphrodisiacs among heterosexual male

undergraduates. It contributes to our understanding of the motivations behind aphrodisiac

consumption, such as conforming to societal expectations, gaining social status, and

overcoming sexual challenges. The research also addresses the recreational use of

aphrodisiacs and its connection to cultural and social norms surrounding substance use.

In conclusion, this study expands our knowledge of sexual health and the use of

aphrodisiacs among heterosexual male undergraduates. The findings provide valuable

insights into the factors influencing sexual experiences, the strategies used to enhance sexual
 136

performance, and the societal and cultural influences on aphrodisiac consumption. These

contributions contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of sexual well-being and

inform discussions on holistic approaches to sexual health among young adults.

 137

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Appendix I
FGD GUIDE
Introduction:
This information will be used for research purposes only. All you say will remain
confidential. Would you mind if I use a recording device? Alternatively: Would you mind if I
record this focus group discussion session? I ask you this, because I want to represent your
words as truthfully as possible. I will type out the recording and use this for my analysis. The
recording will not be used for any other purposes nor will it be listened to by the others.
Thanks.
Socio–Demographic Characteristics of the Participants
1. Age:
2. Marital/Relationship Status:
3. Current Class (Level):

Questions
A. Understanding Masculinity
1. When I say the word ‘man’ to you, what comes to your mind? (Probe for a list of
words…)

2. How do you think a man should act? (Probe for sexual activities, financial provider,
need to prove masculinity)
 Do you act this way?
 Why or why not?
 How do you feel acting that way?
 Is it easy or difficult?
 What happens if you act differently (give examples)?

B. Messages and Representations of Masculinity

3. How do you think masculinity is represented (images) in the popular social media
(Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube etc.)? Probe for representation (images) in
adverts on those social media sites
4. What are the words use to describe masculinity on those popular social media sites?
Probe for slangs, and other terminologies.
5. How do you think men are represented or presented on media (magazines,
advertisements, movies, fashion posters, financially, physically)
 Do you act this way?
 Why or why not?
 How do you feel acting this way?
 Is it easy or difficult?
 What happens if you act differently? (give examples)
6. a. Do you consider yourself a boy or a man according to this standard portrayed in the
media?
 How will/did you know when you have changed from a boy to a man?
b. How are you learning to be a man?
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C. Messages and Representations of Sexual Enhancement

7. What can you say about sexual enhancements? (Probe further for …)
8. How do you think sexual enhancement products are represented (images) in the
popular social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube etc.)? Probe for
representation (images) in adverts on those social media sites

D. Choice of words and descriptions in the branding and labelling of alcoholic and
non-alcoholic beverages with aphrodisiacs claims
9. What are the words use to describe sexual enhancement products on those popular
social media sites? Probe for slangs, and other terminologies.
10. What are examples of beverages (alcoholic & non-alcoholic) that enhances or boosts
sexual performance you know?
 Can you describe how it works?
 From the ones you mentioned, which is from natural products like herbs?
Which is synthetic?
 How expensive or cheap are they?
 What can you say about the labelling and branding?
 Do you think they have any influence on their purchase or usage?
 What about access to get them?
11 Could you share with me some of the choice of words and descriptions in the
branding and labelling of these alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks with aphrodisiac
claims?

E. Notions of responsible consumption of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages with

aphrodisiac claims among young adults
12. Have you use any of those you mentioned before? (Probe further for frequency and
type if yes)
13. In what situation do you think an individual would want to use a sexual enhancer?
(Probe further… examples…)
14. What are some of the benefits of using it according to the adverts and branding?
15. Do you think the use of sexual enhancement helps to prove and maintain that an
individual is man enough?
16. What do you think are the effects of using sexual enhancement substances?

F. Policy trust and responsiveness of public health policy to the availability,

accessibility and consumption of alcoholic beverages among young adults
17. Could you please share with me your opinion on government policies regarding the
availability and consumption of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages with
aphrodisiac claims?

Thank you for your attention and responses.

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Appendix II

IDI GUIDE

Introduction:
This information will be used for research purposes only. All you say will remain
confidential. Would you mind if I use a recording device? Alternatively: Would you mind if I
record this focus group discussion session? I ask you this, because I want to represent your
words as truthfully as possible. I will type out the recording and use this for my analysis. The
recording will not be used for any other purposes nor will it be listened to by the others.
Thanks.
Socio–Demographic Characteristics of the Participant
1. Sex:
2. Age:
3. Marital/Relationship Status:
4. Current Class (Level):
5. Religion:

Questions
1. When I say the word ‘man’ to you, what comes to your mind? (Probe for a list of
words…)

2. How do you think a man should act? (Probe for sexual activities, financial provider,
need to prove masculinity)
 Do you act this way?
 Why or why not?
 How do you feel acting that way?
 Is it easy or difficult?
 What happens if you act differently (give examples)?

3. How do you think men are represented or presented on media (magazines,

advertisements, movies, fashion posters, financially, physically)
 Do you act this way?
 Why or why not?
 How do you feel acting this way?
 Is it easy or difficult?
 What happens if you act differently? (give examples)

4. a. Do you consider yourself a boy or a man according to this standard portrayed in the
media?
 How will/did you know when you have changed from a boy to a man?
b. How are you learning to be a man?

5. What can you say about sexual enhancement? (Probe further for …)
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6. What are the examples of sexual enhancement products you know?

 Can you describe how it works?
 From the ones you mentioned, which is from natural products like herbs?
Which is synthetic?
 How expensive or cheap are they?
 What about access to get them?

7. Have you use any of those you mentioned before? (Probe further for frequency and
type if yes)

8. In what situation do you think an individual would want to use a sexual enhancer?
(Probe further… examples…)

9. What could be the reasons for the use of sexual enhancer by an individual? (Probe
further for examples)
10. All the aforementioned sexual enhancement products, how are they used? (Like, in
what ways are they used? Is it by ingestion, injection, rubbing, wearing etc.?)

11. Can you describe how some of these sexual enhancers are advertised in the media?
(Probe further for the medium, visual displays etc.)
 How explicit are their visuals?
 How informative are their adverts?
 Can you describe how attracting their packages and branding?

12. What are some of the benefits of using it according to the adverts and branding?

13. Do you think the use of sexual enhancement helps to prove and maintain that an
individual is man enough? Probe for image building…

14. What do you think are the effects of using sexual enhancement substances?

Thank you for your attention and responses.

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APPENDIX III
DEPARTMENT OF SOCIOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY
FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES
OBAFEMI AWOLOWO UNIVERSITY
ILE-IFE, NIGERIA
QUESTIONNAIRE
Dear Respondents,
I am a Postgraduate Student in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at the Obafemi
Awolowo University. My research is focused on the sexual health and the use of aphrodisiacs
(manpower) among young people. You are being approached to participate in this study as a young
person. The research is being carried out as part of the requirements for the award of a degree. Please,
note that the information given will be treated strictly confidential and the responses will remain
anonymous. Your sincere response will be highly appreciated.
Thank You.
Adekunle
SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC
1. Gender: a. Male
2. Age at last birthday: ……………………………
3. What year did you gain admission into this institution/university? …………………….
4. Age at which you had your first girlfriend/boyfriend? ………………………
5. How old was your first girlfriend/boyfriend? ………………………….
6. How old were you when you had your first sexual intercourse? …………………………
7. What is the duration of your shortest romantic relationship? …………………………
8. How many girlfriends/boyfriends have you had so far? …………………………….
9. What is the duration of your longest romantic relationship? …………………..
10. Are you currently involved in any intimate relationship? a. Yes b. No
11. What is your sexual orientation? a. Heterosexual (Straight) b. Bisexual
c. Homosexual d. Others
12. How many sexual partners have you had in total ……………………….
13. Number of sexual partners at the moment? a. Single b. Multiple

CONCEPT OF SEXUAL PERFORMANCE

14. I want you to consider the following statements on what sexual performance is and share your
candid opinion about each one
Ye N
s o
Being able to hit your partner hard during sexual intercourse
Being able to have multiple rounds of sexual intercourse at a go
Making your partner cum during sexual intercourse
Satisfying your sexual partner on bed most of the time
Lasting long during sexual intercourse
Delaying ejaculation for more pleasure
Showing the stamina/strength to sexually satisfy one’s partner
Showing the skills to sexually satisfy one’s partner
Showing the experience to sexually satisfy one’s partner
Women are more satisfied if they have several orgasms through vaginal penetration
A sexually competent man can make his partner have orgasms through vaginal penetration
Being able to hit your partner hard during sexual intercourse
Being able to have multiple rounds of sexual intercourse at a go
Making your partner cum during sexual intercourse
Satisfying your sexual partner on bed most of the time
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Lasting long during sexual intercourse

Delaying ejaculation for more pleasure
Showing the stamina/strength to sexually satisfy one’s partner
Showing the skills to sexually satisfy one’s partner
Showing the experience to sexually satisfy one’s partner
Women are more satisfied if they have several orgasms through vaginal penetration
A sexually competent man can make his partner have orgasms through vaginal penetration

15. I want you to consider the following statements on what a man needs to be able to perform
sexually
Yes No
Being able to engage in different styles during sexual intercourse
Being able to engage in oral and other forms of sexual explorations
A manhood size that is big size
A manhood size that is on the average
A manhood size that is small in size
A man should be able to use his manhood skilfully
A man should be physically stronger than the woman
Men should maintain an erection for the time a woman requires to have multiple
orgasms
Being able to engage in different styles during sexual intercourse
Being able to engage in oral and other forms of sexual explorations
A manhood size that is big size
A manhood size that is on the average
A manhood size that is small in size
A man should be able to use his manhood skilfully
A man should be physically stronger than the woman
Men should maintain an erection for the time a woman requires to have multiple
orgasms
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CONCEPT OF SEXUAL ENHANCEMENT

16. I want you to consider the following statements on what sexual enhancement entails and share
your candid opinion
Ye N
s o
Men uses sexual enhancements (manpower) because they do not have satisfactory sex
with their partners
It entails making efforts to get a woman to climax (orgasm) during intercourse
Men use aphrodisiacs (manpower) because it has to do with erectile functions
If a woman uses sex toys, it is because she is sexually dissatisfied with her partner
If a man feels sexual desire for other women, aphrodisiacs (manpower) is needed to
satisfy those women sexually
Men use aphrodisiacs (manpower) because it promotes sexual desire
The use of aphrodisiacs (manpower) helps men exact their masculinity
Men uses sexual enhancements (manpower) because they do not have satisfactory sex
with their partners
It entails making efforts to get a woman to climax (orgasm) during intercourse
Men use aphrodisiacs (manpower) because it has to do with erectile functions
If a woman uses sex toys, it is because she is sexually dissatisfied with her partner
If a man feels sexual desire for other women, aphrodisiacs (manpower) is needed to
satisfy those women sexually
Men use aphrodisiacs (manpower) because it promotes sexual desire
The use of aphrodisiacs (manpower) helps men exact their masculinity

MIXTURE AND QUANTITY OF APHRODISIAC CONTENTS CONSUMED

17. Which of the beverages with aphrodisiac contents would you prefer to drink?
(Orijin bitters, Alomo bitters, Burukutu, Baby Oku, Erujeje, Blackwood, Monkey tail,
Koboko, Opa eyin, Agbara Bitters, Osomo bitters, Yoyo Bitters, Jekomo, Alabukun, Igboya
Herbal Bitters)
a. Aphrodisiac (manpower) beverages mixed with alcohol
b. Aphrodisiac (manpower) beverages mixed with ordinary water
c. Both
18. Why would you pick your choice of aphrodisiac (manpower) mixture in the previous question?
a. Aphrodisiacs mixed with alcohol are more effective
b. Aphrodisiacs mixed with water are more effective
c. Both are effective
d. I prefer the one mixed with water because I do not take alcohol
19. Which do you prefer?
a. Aphrodisiac (manpower) beverages mixed & blended inside a
sealed bottle (e.g., Origin Bitters, Jekanmo, Alomo Bitters etc.)
b. Aphrodisiac (manpower) beverages made up of herbal roots mixed
inside a container or bottle (e.g., Agbo Opa-Eyin, Mokole, etc.)
c. Both
20. How has the preferred ways of mixing influenced your level of consumption?
a. It has increased my level of consumption
b. It has no effect on my level of consumption
c. It has decreased my level of consumption
21. What is the quantity of the mixture you can consume at once?
a. One shot cup
b. Two or more shot cups
c. One 100ml bottle
d. One 150ml bottle
e. More than 100ml bottles at once
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22. When do you preferred consuming the beverage?

a. Any time of the day to energize the body
b. Before sex
c. During sex
d. After sex

FACTORS INFLUENCING THE CHOICE OF BEVERAGES

23. I want you to consider the following statements on factors that influences the choice of
Aphrodisiacs taken among students
Yes No
Frequent hearing of advertisements of aphrodisiac products
Presence of chronic health problem
Lack of knowledge of the side effects
When a man has more than one sexual partner
When a man experiences early ejaculation
When a man experiences difficulties in getting erection
When a man is finding difficult to make a woman reach orgasm
When there is lack of sexual interest
To achieve a bigger manhood size
To exact dominance over their sexual partner(s)

24. Have you used any of the available alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages with aphrodisiac
(manpower) contents in it?
a. Yes
b. No
c. Maybe

Thank you for your responses.