Exploring the Challenges in Parenting Style That Contribute to Adolescent Sexual Behavior

Abstract

The growing concerns surrounding sexual education in Malaysia are underscored by a rise in ethical and moral challenges, including premarital sex, issues related to LGBT, and pornography addiction among teenagers, reflecting a worrisome trend. Sexuality remains a sensitive and often taboo topic in society, resulting in limited discourse on related issues. Consequently, this study seeks to explore the gaps and challenges in parenting practices that contribute to adolescent sexual behavior and related concerns. This study adopts a qualitative approach by conducting interviews with five teenagers and five parents, complemented by library research. The results reveal several aspects where parental strategies may fall short in managing adolescent sexual challenges: a) monitoring of gadget and teenage activities, b) parenting style, c) family communication, d) religious education, and e) family time. Effective parental coping strategies are essential for providing appropriate sexual guidance to teenagers. The findings of this study can assist parents in better addressing adolescent sexual issues while offering valuable insights to the Social Welfare Department (JKM) for enhancing training programs, community services, and guidance initiatives.

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Author Information
Sakinah Salleh, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Malaysia
Abu Zarrin Selamat, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Malaysia
Norhafiza Mohd Hed, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Malaysia
Alwi Mohd Yunus, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia
Fatin Farhanah Ammer, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Malaysia