Perceptions of Male Adolescents Related to Love and Sexual Relationships

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Objective : To explore and explain the world view of male adolescents related to love and sexual relation.
Methods : A qualitative study was employed at 7 provinces of 4 regions including Kumpangphet, Nakornrachasima, Samutsakorn, Samutsongkarm, Prachoabkeereekun, Suratthanee and Narathiwat which were chosen as study sites. Using purposive sampling
strategy, boys aged of 9-19 who were in primary school, high school, vocational school and who had dropped out from school were chosen. Data was saturated at 197 boys. The average age was 15.7 and the majority of them were in secondary school. Focus group discussions and in-depth interviews were conducted to gather data. Content analysis and thematic analysis were employed. Triangulation was used to ensure the rigor of the study.
Results : Findings indicates that the participants perceived that having romantic relationships and sexual activity are common among their peers. Four main themes were found including “male adolescent everywhere share similar ideas”, “love is happiness and giving”, “having a romantic partner is common and cool” and “sexual intercourse is regarded as giving and receiving”.
Conclusion : The findings reveal that having sexual relationships in young adolescents is regarded as normal and the male adolescents’ perception holds a risk of creating gender-based violence, sexually transmitted diseases and being a teen father. Gender specific sexuality education is needed.