Peer Influence, Family Dynamics, And Social Media in Risky Sexual Behaviors of Female Street Adolescents in Makassar: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: As a developing city in Indonesia, Makassar faces various problems, with one of the prominent issues being promiscuous sexual behavior. This situation particularly affects young women living on the streets, where they face difficulties in accessing basic needs such as education, health services and security. This vulnerable condition has the potential to cause long-term impacts, including the emergence of sexual behavior trends among adolescent girls living on the streets.
Objectives: This study aims to examine in depth the free sexual behavior of adolescent girls in the street children community in Makassar City including the causes and experiences experienced.
Methods: The research used a qualitative approach with a case study design, involving three main informants (adolescent girls aged 14-18 years) and 12 supporting informants recruited using snowball sampling. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation, then analyzed using thematic descriptive analysis.
Results: The findings show that peers play a significant role through open sexual discussions and group pressure. Disharmonious family relationships and lack of sexual education create further vulnerability. In addition, social media facilitates access to inappropriate sexual content, magnifying the risk of risky behavior.
Conclusions: This study emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach, including appropriate sexual education, strengthening family roles, and social media surveillance to prevent promiscuous sexual behavior among adolescent girls of street children communities.