Background: Increased consumption of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSBs), with overweight and obesity have been associated with the risk of developing type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Aims: This study was aimed at assessing the pattern of consumption of SSBs and factors associated with the risk of developing T2DM within ten years among emerging adults in Abeokuta, (Nigeria). Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 350 students in public tertiary institutions in Abeokuta was undertaken using stratified random sampling. Data on SSBs consumption pattern and risk of developing T2DM was obtained using validated questionnaire. Height, weight and waist circumference (used to assess abdominal obesity (AO) were measured using standard procedures. Body mass index (BMI/BMI-for-age) was calculated. Fischer’s exact test and binary logistic regression were employed to test for associations among variables. Results: Most (62.9%) of the respondents were female and within the age-range of 20-24 years. Carbonated drinks were the most commonly consumed SSB (99.7%). Participants consuming carbonated drinks more than twice weekly had higher rate of overweight (27.3%) and obesity (12.0%). Consuming fruit drinks (OR = 15.2, 95% CI = 1.971, 117.400), malt drinks (OR = 3.2, 95% CI = 1.862, 5.571), and other beverages (OR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.293, 6.899) more than twice weekly increased the odds of developing diabetes. Conclusion: The high prevalence of SSB consumption among the study population highlights the need for interventions to reduce consumption and mitigate associated health risks, including overweight, obesity, and T2DM. Keywords: Sugar-sweetened beverages, overweight, abdominal obesity, type 2 diabetes, risk factors.

In recent times, research has focused on positive youth development (PYD) amidst the deficits of youth. However, little is known about PYD and its potential to predict social engagement. Thus, this study aimed to examine the presence of the 5Cs of PYD (competence, confidence, connection, character, and caring) and its difference in gender and prediction to contribution, specifically social engagement among family, peers, schools, and community. The sample size consisted of Nigerian youth in University (N = 394, M_age = 18.42, SD = 1.02). The PYD framework served as the theoretical perspective underpinning the study. Questionnaires were administered using the 5Cs model of PYD and contribution items. Data were analysed for descriptive, correlations, and hierarchical regression to examine the predictors of contribution while controlling for demographics. The results showed greater scores in competence, connection, and character for women. Competence and connection (β = 0.56, p < 0.05) specifically had significantly independent associations with community volunteerism. While the findings highlight the Cs experienced and predictive values among each variable in the Nigerian context, future research could consider how each domain of the 5Cs holistically promotes contribution equally in males and females among diverse Nigerian youth. The research has implications for research, policy, and practice.

Covering an introductory chapter, a commentary and nine full chapters published as protocol, experimental, theoretical, or empirical studies, this publication depicts the voices, perceptions, experiences and developmental outcomes of adolescents and emerging adults from countries located in four continents: Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America. Individually and collectively, the different book chapters address how social justice and equity can be advanced from a Positive Youth Development perspective during these challenging times of globalization and digitalization, as well as when facing a global health emergency, such as the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The observations and opinions of authors, corresponding to the diverse countries and continents represented in this book, signify the different ways a just and equitable society can be created for young people. Throughout the pages of this book, the importance of including the voices and choices of young people in research, policy and intervention becomes apparent to be able to promote and build a more just society.

The pervasive integration of digital media into daily life is reshaping how individuals encounter and internalize harmful contents. Unrestricted access exposes students to emotionally disruptive materials, including depictions of violence, substance use, and harassment, raising concerns about its impact on well-being. This study examines a serial mediation model linking antisocial media exposure to subjective well-being (SWB) through school-based victimization as sequential pathways. Using data from 326 high school students in Nigeria, we applied partial least squares structural equation modeling to test hypothesized relationships. Results indicate that antisocial media exposure was not directly associated with SWB but significantly predicted experiences of teacher and peer victimization. Peer victimization mediated the relationship between antisocial media exposure and SWB (β = −0.023, 95% CI: [−0.054, −0.004], p < 0.05). Furthermore, antisocial media exposure increased the likelihood of teacher victimization, which facilitated peer victimization, ultimately compromising SWB (β = −0.030, 95% CI: [−0.058, −0.011], p < 0.05). Effects varied by gender and academic level, underscoring intersectional risks linked to media exposure. Findings highlight the need for targeted interventions addressing both teacher and peer victimization in resource-constrained educational contexts.

Covering an introductory chapter, a commentary and nine full chapters published as protocol, experimental, theoretical, or empirical studies, this publication depicts the voices, perceptions, experiences and developmental outcomes of adolescents and emerging adults from countries located in four continents: Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America. Individually and collectively, the different book chapters address how social justice and equity can be advanced from a Positive Youth Development perspective during these challenging times of globalization and digitalization, as well as when facing a global health emergency, such as the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The observations and opinions of authors, corresponding to the diverse countries and continents represented in this book, signify the different ways a just and equitable society can be created for young people. Throughout the pages of this book, the importance of including the voices and choices of young people in research, policy and intervention becomes apparent to be able to promote and build a more just society.