Consumption of Aphrodisiacs among Adolescents: A Risky Behaviour in the Far North Region of Cameroon

Abstract

This study explores aphrodisiac use among adolescents in the Far North region of Cameroon as a risky behavior. Using a qualitative approach based on semi-structured interviews, six regular adolescent users were interviewed. The results reveal that this use is influenced by peer pressure, the expectations of sexual partners, and the easy availability of the products. This practice, a source of health risks, underscores the need for increased awareness and regulatory oversight. The study seeks to understand the phenomenon of aphrodisiac use among adolescents, which, over time, becomes a risky behavior requiring further investigation to fully explain this phenomenon. A sample of six adolescents was selected using the purposive sampling technique. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview guide and analyzed using thematic content analysis. To conduct this research, we asked ourselves: what could explain aphrodisiac use among adolescents? The objective of this study is to identify the factors influencing aphrodisiac use among adolescents. It is based on the following hypothesis: several factors explain adolescent aphrodisiac use. After analyzing the data collected in the field, we concluded that adolescents do use aphrodisiacs, and that this use is justified by several reasons: the pursuit of pleasure, the desire to push boundaries, and sexual performance. This constitutes a risky behavior that necessitates psychological support, potentially provided through an active listening service to assist adolescents. Parents bear primary responsibility, followed by the State through the relevant ministries of youth and education, religious leaders, and the entire community.