A Correlation Between Peer Role And Efforts To Prevent Free Sexual Behavior Among Tenth-Grade Adolescents At Sman 02 Bengkulu City

Abstract

Adolescence is a transitional period that is vulnerable to risky behaviors, including free sexual behavior; therefore, effective prevention efforts are needed. One of the factors that plays an important role in shaping adolescents’ attitudes and behaviors is the influence of peers. This study aims to determine a correlation between peer roles and efforts to prevent free sexual behavior among tenth-grade students at SMAN 02 Bengkulu City in 2026. This study employed a quantitative method with a correlational design and a cross-sectional approach. The study population consisted of 433 students, with a sample of 81 respondents selected using a stratified random sampling technique. The research instrument used was a questionnaire, and data analysis was conducted using the Chi-Square test. The results showed a significant correlation between peer roles and efforts to prevent free sexual behavior among tenth-grade adolescents at SMAN 02 Bengkulu City in 2026 (p ≤ 0.05). The findings of this study are expected to serve as a consideration for schools and healthcare professionals in developing adolescent reproductive health education programs by optimizing the role of peers as one of the strategies to prevent free sexual behavior.