Sexual Education for Teens as Seen in the Parents’ Characteristics

Abstract

Introduction: Sexually transmitted diseases and teenage pregnancy are among the negative consequences of early sexual activity during adolescence. These issues can be mitigated through sexual education provided by parents. This study aims to analyze the relationship between parental characteristics and the provision of sexual education to adolescents. Methods: This quantitative study employs a cross-sectional approach. The study population consisted of parents with teenagers aged 13-15 years attending MTsN schools in the Madura region. A total of 200 parents were considered, and a proportional random sampling method was used to select 134 respondents from four cities across nine MTsN schools. Data collection was conducted between January and February 2024 using questionnaires. Bivariate analysis was performed using the Chi-square statistical test, while multivariate analysis was conducted using logistic regression. Results: The findings indicate a significant relationship between parental characteristics, specifically, maternal knowledge (p = 0.008 : OR = 50.734 : CI=2.765-931.043), perception (p = 0.021 : OR = 24.197 : CI = 1.631-358.941) and maternal education (p = 0.031: OR=21.408 : CI = 1.330-344.706), and the provision of sexual education to teenagers.This finding indicates that knowledge has the most dominant relationship with the provision of sexual education to adolescents. However, maternal age (p = 0.38) and employment status (p = 0.41) did not show a significant association. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of parental characteristics, particularly knowledge. Parents are encouraged to improve their knowledge and understanding of adolescent sexual health so that they can effectively provide sexual education to teenagers.