PERCEPTION OF CROSS-DRESSING CULTURE AMONG STUDENTS

A STUDY OF NNAMDI AZIKIWE UNIVERSITY, AWKA, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the perception of students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka on cross-dressing culture. The study objectives were to determine the types of cross-dressing, to find whether or not cross-dressing exists in the University and the cause(s) of cross-dressing. A descriptive survey research design was used. Data were collected from 265 respondents using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics such as frequency counts and percentages were used for analysis, while the research hypotheses were tested with Chi-square (χ²) test statistics at 0.05 level of significance. The study revealed that noticeable level of cross-dressing was practised among students. Assumed cross-gender identities commonly take the form of wearing clothing that is usually associated with the opposite gender and social media display of an opposite-gender identity. Peer influence and social media exposure were identified as contributing factors to the problem. The results of Chi-square test of hypothesis show that there is a significant occurrence of cross-dressing influenced by social media. It was recommended that the management of the university should mount awareness programs, counselling, and enforce policies prohibiting negative cross-gender cultural orientations on campus.