A Correlation Between Peer Environment And Exposure To Information Media And Sexual Behavior Prevention Among Adolescents At Sman 06 In The Coastal Area Of Bengkulu City

Abstract

Risky sexual behavior among adolescents remains a public health concern, as indicated by cases of premarital pregnancy and other inappropriate sexual behaviors at SMAN 06 Kota Bengkulu during the 2023–2025 period. According to data from the National Population and Family Planning Agency (BKKBN) of Bengkulu City, there were 131 cases of risky sexual behavior among adolescents aged 10–19 years in 2024. This study aims to determine the correlation between peer environment and exposure to information media and the prevention of risky sexual behavior among adolescents at SMAN 06 in the coastal area of Bengkulu City. This study used a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design. The sample consisted of 89 students selected using proportionate stratified random sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed using the Chi-Square test. The results showed that 44 respondents had an unfavorable peer environment, 19 respondents had been exposed to high-risk information media, and 57 respondents demonstrated good prevention of risky sexual behavior. There were significant relationships between peer environment (p = 0.039) and exposure to information media (p = 0.012) and the prevention of risky sexual behavior among adolescents. It can be concluded that peer environment and exposure to information media are significantly associated with the prevention of risky sexual behavior among adolescents at SMAN 06 in the coastal area of Bengkulu City. Schools are recommended to provide education on media literacy and healthy peer relationships and to collaborate with parents in monitoring adolescents' social interactions to prevent risky sexual behavior.