The Relationship Between Knowledge, Attitude, and Peers with Premarital Sexual Behavior Among Adolescents
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Abstract
Introduction: Premarital sexual activity among adolescents remains a pressing reproductive health issue, carrying risks that range from unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS, to a variety of psychological and social consequences. A number of factors are believed to shape this behavior, among them how much adolescents know about reproductive health, the attitudes they hold, and the influence exerted by their peer groups.
Objectives: This research was carried out to examine the connection between knowledge, attitude, and peer influence and premarital sexual behavior among Grade XI students at SMA Negeri 4 Kupang.
Method: A quantitative, cross-sectional design was employed. Of a total student population of 432, 205 respondents were selected through non-probability purposive sampling. Data were gathered by questionnaire and examined using univariate description alongside bivariate Chi-Square testing at a significance threshold of α = 0.05.
Results: The findings revealed that most respondents fell into the poor-knowledge group (53.7%), held negative attitudes (61.0%), and belonged to the poor or peer-influenced category (56.1%). Bivariate testing confirmed statistically meaningful associations between knowledge and premarital sexual behavior (p = 0.049), attitude and premarital sexual behavior (p = 0.011), and peer influence and premarital sexual behavior (p = 0.021).
Conclusion: That stronger knowledge, healthier attitudes, and a more positive peer environment are each linked to a reduced likelihood of premarital sexual activity. Strengthening reproductive health education, supporting adolescent character development, and reinforcing parental and community supervision through collaboration among schools, families, and health workers are recommended as ways to help prevent premarital sexual behavior among adolescents.
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References
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