Sexual Promiscuity among Generation Z in Bukittinggi City, Indonesia

Sexual Promiscuity among Generation Z in Bukittinggi City, Indonesia

Muchti Asih, Debby Ratno Kustanto^*

Faculty Nursing and Public Health, Universitas Prima Nusantara Bukittinggi, West Sumatera, Indonesia

^*Corresponding Author

DOI: https://doi.org/10.51584/IJRIAS.2025.10030049

Received: 11 March 2025; Accepted: 15 March 2025; Published: 14 April 2025

ABSTRACT

Promiscuity presents a complex social and moral dilemma, provoking significant debate within the society of West Sumatra, which is deeply rooted in Minangkabau cultural values and Islamic principles. This research seeks to explore the potential correlation between sexual education and promiscuity within the context of Bukittinggi City in the year 2024. This investigation employs a quantitative approach, utilizing analytical methods within a cross-sectional framework. The study’s population comprised all adolescents residing in Bukittinggi City, amounting to a total of 71,563 individuals, from which a sample of 119 adolescents was selected. This study was carried out in Bukittinggi City in the year 2024. The study employed a non-probability sampling technique, specifically utilizing an accidental sampling approach. The research methodology employed a questionnaire, while the data analysis utilized the chi-square test. The study’s findings indicate a notable correlation between school education and promiscuity (p-value 0.0001), as well as a significant relationship between sexual education at home and promiscuity (p-value 0.0001). Additionally, peer sexual education also demonstrates a significant association with promiscuity (p-value 0.0001). It can be inferred that the interplay between home education, school environments, and peer influences significantly correlates with promiscuity.

Keywords: Promiscuity; Generation Z; Sexual Education; Bukittinggi

INTRODUCTION

In 2019, the World Health Organization reported that 12 million women aged 15 to 19 were born annually, predominantly in low- and middle-income countries. Furthermore, approximately 3.9 million individuals aged 15 to 19 experience unsafe abortions annually. In 2020, approximately 10 million unplanned pregnancies are projected to occur annually in developing countries among unmarried adolescents aged 15 to 19 years (Marzuki MS, 2021).

Among Indonesian adolescents aged 15-19 years, 4% of males and 0.7% of females indicated participation in premarital sexual activity. A significant proportion of adolescents, specifically those aged 15 to 19 years, commenced their dating experiences during the ages of 15 to 17 years. A significant proportion of individuals between the ages of 15 and 19 commenced their dating experiences prior to reaching the age of 15. Certain individuals believe that their lack of maturity could impede their capacity to make judicious dating choices, thereby rendering them vulnerable to detrimental behaviors such as premarital sexual activity (Adriani R, 2022). Research indicates that young individuals engaged in heterosexual relationships exhibit heightened levels of confidence and openness (Retnowati et al., 2020). According to the findings, 51.8% of the participants exhibited open sexual behavior (Aulia & Winarti, 2020). In a similar vein, all adolescents acknowledged their involvement in sexual activity, with 81.5% affirming their participation in dating (Siregar et al., 2020). The behavior of adolescents experiences considerable transformations, influencing their physical, psychological, social, and cultural dimensions (Hébert et al., 2016).

Recent investigations into sexual promiscuity and behavior have focused on health, environmental, and educational aspects. Consequently, the investigation into the ways in which young individuals contest established religious traditions through alternative rites and behaviors holds significant importance (Taufiqurrahmana et al., 2021).According to the findings of a study by Lisa Putriani and Reni Kurnia (2023) in  West Sumatra Province, particularly in Padang City, it is elucidated that the phenomenon regarding the attitudes of Minangkabau adolescents towards free sexual behavior falls within the category of rejection. From a cognitive perspective, it falls into the realm of rejection, while the affective dimension exhibits hesitance, and the conative aspect also aligns with rejection. Moreover, there exist distinctions in the perspectives of adolescents regarding unrestricted sexual behavior, particularly when analyzed through the lens of gender, with male adolescents generally exhibiting a greater acceptance of such behavior compared to their female counterparts (Putriani L, 2023).

Indriani and Nikmah, in their scholarly investigation, examined the impact of audio-visual media counseling on adolescents regarding the perils of promiscuity among class XI students at Senior High School 1 Sukomoro in 2023. Their findings indicated that prior to the counseling intervention, students exhibited a deficiency in knowledge concerning the dangers of sexual activity. However, following the implementation of audio-visual media counseling, students’ understanding of these risks significantly improved, categorizing their knowledge as proficient (Indriani S et al, 2023). The objective of this research is to analyze the phenomenon of promiscuity within the context of sexual education as it pertains to Generation Z in Bukittinggi City.

METHOD

Research Design

The research is quantitative and employs a cross-sectional approach, which emphasizes the singular measurement or observation of data on independent and dependent variables at a designated time (point time approach).

Population and Sample

This study employed a non-probability sampling technique utilizing an accidental sampling approach, wherein respondents were selected randomly according to the following formula. This study used the Slovin formula as the sample formula:

The total number of samples used in this investigation was 100, and then 20% of those samples were dropped out, bringing the total number of samples to 119.

Research Instrument

A questionnaire was utilized for this data collection. The research questionnaire comprises four sections: sex education at home, sex education at school, sex education in peer communities, and promiscuity.

Data Analysis

The analysis of data in this study employed the chi-square test, maintaining a confidence level of 95%, utilizing SPSS version 29 software

RESULT AND DISCUSSION

Univariate Analysis

Table 1: Frequency Distribution of Sexual Education and Promiscuity among Generation Z in Bukittinggi City, 2024

Source: Primary Research Data

The study’s findings indicated that 45.4% of respondents in Bukittinggi City in 2024 received good sexual education at home, 41.2% received good sexual education at school, 78.2% received poor sexual education from peers, and 24.4% engaged in hazardous promiscuity. The purpose of sexual education at home is to cultivate a positive emotional outlook toward sexual issues and to assist children and adolescents in preparing for a healthy adult life, as well as to assume responsibility for their sexual lives. High rates of child sexual abuse are committed by those closest to the child, including family, as a result of the absence of sex education at an early age. Parents are currently less concerned with the issue of sex education, despite the fact that they are the ones who are responsible for sex education in early infancy (Yafie E, 2020).

The findings of this study are consistent with the research conducted by Wirda Faswita and Leny Suarni (2020) in Sex Education in Schools with Adolescent Sexual Behaviour in SMA Negeri 4 Kota Binjai. The study indicates that the majority of the respondents are adolescents who have received good sex education and exhibit sexual behavior that is not at risk for 53 individuals (41.4%), while 60 students (46.9%) have received good sex education but exhibit risky sexual behavior. Nine students (7.0%) have insufficient sex education, while six students (4.7%) have insufficient sex education and engage in hazardous sexual behavior. It is crucial that instructors provide sexual education to students in school, as a lack of education can jeopardize the future of the younger generation and result in undesirable outcomes, such as narcotics and pregnancy outside of marriage.

The findings of this study align with the research conducted by Novi Rahmadani (2021) regarding the influence of parental roles, peer dynamics, and media on adolescents’ perceptions of sexual behavior at SMPN Kubung District, Solok Regency in 2021. Among the 90 respondents, 54 exhibited negative peer influences, with 24 (44.4%) engaging in risky sexual behavior and 30 (55.6%) not at risk. Conversely, of the 36 respondents influenced positively by peers, 21 (58.3%) displayed risky sexual behavior while 15 (41.7%) were not at risk. This study employed a cross-sectional design, with a population of 929 students in grades 7 and 8 and a sample size of 90 respondents. Negative peer influences pose significant risks to the younger generation, potentially leading to adverse outcomes such as unintended pregnancies and substance abuse.

Promiscuity is a form of deviant behavior that is inconsistent with religious norms and teachings. In our own environment and on social media, issues regarding promiscuity are frequently encountered. A significant number of adolescents engage in promiscuity, including free sex, drugs, acts of violence, alcohol, brawls, and nightlife (Alderajat et al, 2023). The results of this study are consistent with Fatu’s (2022) research in the community service journal The Impact of Promiscuity Among Adolescents, which posits that promiscuity among students in Toineke Village, Kualin Sub-district, South Central Timor Regency is a result of cultural shifts, lack of attention from parents, close friends, and the media. These factors have an impact on declining student achievement, dropping out of school, and becoming pregnant outside of marriage.

Bivariate Analysis

Table 2 Represents The Correlation Between Promiscuity and Sexual Education In Bukittinggi City In 2024.

Source: Primary Research Data

The analysis of the study’s results revealed that 17.6% of respondents exhibited poor sexual education and engaged in risky promiscuity. The statistical test analysis yielded a p-value of 0.0001 (p-value <0.05), indicating a significant relationship between sexual education at home and promiscuity. A total of 21.0% of respondents reported receiving inadequate sexual education in school, which correlated with risky promiscuity. Statistical analysis yielded a p-value of 0.0001 (p-value <0.05), indicating a significant relationship between the quality of sexual education and levels of promiscuity. Among the respondents, 12.6% exhibit inadequate peer sexual education and engage in risky promiscuity. The statistical analysis yielded a p-value of 0.0001 (p-value <0.05), indicating a statistically significant relationship between peer sexual education and promiscuity.

Families play a crucial role in influencing the morals and behavior of their children. Parents have the opportunity to instill strong morals and values in their children. Education in ethics and the impartation of positive values. The involvement of parents in their children’s education significantly influences their character and personality (Taher, 2021). It is essential for parents to oversee their children’s activities and confirm that they are constructive. It is essential for parents to deliver comprehensive sex education to their children. This can educate children on the risks associated with promiscuity. Parents have the opportunity to educate their children about sexual health and the potential risks associated with promiscuity, fostering open discussions on this important topic. It is essential for parents to highlight the importance of integrity in sexual relationships and to make sure their children understand its meaning (Haisusyi, 2019).Pengaruh pendidikan seks terhadap siswa di sekolah adalah menumbuhkan pemahaman seksualitas yang komprehensif, yang pada gilirannya mendorong mereka untuk lebih berhati-hati dalam berinteraksi dengan pasangan, sehingga mengurangi kemungkinan terlibat dalam aktivitas seksual pranikah yang mungkin akan mereka sesali di kemudian hari. Siswa juga dapat memiliki kemampuan kognitif (Iriyani, 2022).

A peer group significantly influences the self-development of teenagers from both social and psychological perspectives (Vembriarto, 2017). As stated by Fatimah (2016), peer groups constitute the initial social milieu in which adolescents acquire the skills to coexist with individuals outside their familial relationships. Through peer groups, adolescents acquire respect for one another, develop tolerance, and assume responsibility. A peer group is a social context characterized by interactions among persons of comparable age, as well as shared attributes such as educational background, hobbies, interests, and socioeconomic level.

CONCLUSION

Based on the findings of the study, it is clear that sexual education is extremely vital and influences the association of teenagers in this case, generation Z. Parents, teachers, and peers in this regard play a very significant role in delivering sexual education at home, at school, and among peers.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

Gratitude is extended to the Faculty of Nursing and Public Health at Prima Nusantara University Bukittinggi for their assistance and provision of facilities for this research endeavor.

REFERENCE

1. Alderajat Mudayanah A, Toharudin A, Yulvani Pertiwi C, Putri M, Zulbetti R. Penyuluhan Pergaulan Bebas Bagi Remaja Desa Malakasari Baleendah Kabupaten Bandung. J Pengabdi Kpd Masy (Adi Dharma). 2023;2(1):83–8.
2. Andriani R, Suhrawardi, Hapisah. Hubungan tingkat pengetahuan dan sikap remaja dengan perilaku seksual pranikah. J Inov Penelit [Internet]. 2022;2(10):3441–6. Available from: https://stp-mataram.e-journal.id/JIP/article/view/1341
3. Aulia, N., & Winarti, Y. (2020). Hubungan Peran Teman Sebaya dengan Perilaku Seks Bebas pada Remaja di SMA Negeri 16 Samarinda. Borneo Studeny Research, 1(3), 1977–1980.
4. Faswita W, Suarni L. Hubungan Pemberian Pendidikan Seks di Sekolah dengan Perilaku Seksual Remaja di SMA Negeri 4 Kota Binjai 2017. J Jumantik. 2020;5(49):1–16.
5. Fatimah, Suharto. (2016). Membangun Masyarakat Memberdayakan Rakyat: Kajian Strategis Pembangunan Kesejahteraan Sosial & Pekerjaan Sosial. Bandung: PT Rafika Aditama.
6. Fatu S, Gideon G, Manik NDY. Dampak Pergaulan Bebas Di Kalangan Pelajar. Serv J Pengabdi Kpd Masy. 2022;2(1):103–16.
7. Haisusyi, H. (2019). Peran PIK-R dalam Mencegah Pergaulan Bebas Peserta Didik di MAN Kota Palangka Raya. IAIN Palangka Raya
8. Hébert, M., Cénat, J. M., Blais, M., Lavoie, F., & Guerrier, M. (2016). Child Sexual Abuse, Bullying, Cyberbullying, and Mental Health Problems among High Schools Students: A Moderated Mediated Model. Depression and Anxiety, 33(7), 623–629. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1002/da.22504 99–108.
9. Indriani S, Nikmah AN, Nirwana BS, Purnani WT. Pengaruh Penyuluhan Melalui Media Audio Visual Terhadap Tingkat Pengetahuan Bahaya Seks Bebas Pada Remaja Di Sman 1 Sukomoro Tahun 2023. Jumakes J Mhs Kesehat. 2023;5:55–69.
10. Iriyani, E. (2022). PENGARUH SEX EDUCATION TERHADAP PENGETAHUAN PENCEGAHAN PELECEHAN SEKSUAL PADA SISWA SD. Jurnal Ilmu Kebidanan, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.48092/jik.v9i1.178
11. Marzuki MS, NST MZA. Hubungan Sikap Remaja Terhadap Perilaku Seks Bebas Dengan Tingkat Penalaran Moral Pada Siswa Kelas Dua Di Sma Negeri 1 Gunung Meriah Kabupaten Aceh Singkil. J Sains Ris | [Internet]. 2021;11(November):786. Available from: http://journal.unigha.ac.id/index.php/JSR
12. Oktavianis O, Nurhayati N, Rahmadani N. Hubungan Peran Orang Tua, Teman Sebaya, Media Informasi Dan Persepsi Remaja Dengan Perilaku Seksual Remaja. Matern Child Heal Care. 2021;3(3):585.
13. Putriani L, Handayani PG, Kurnia R, Putra FW, Febriani RD. Sikap remaja gen-z berlatar budaya Minangkabau terhadap perilaku seks bebas. J Educ J Pendidik Indones. 2023;9(2):1039.
14. Retnowati, V., Ilmu, M., Masyarakat, K., & Sebelas, U. (2020). Pengaruh Teman Sebaya dan Gaya Pacaran terhadap Perilaku Seks Pranikah pada Remaja Pria. 15(2), 75–79.
15. Siregar, R. E., Hasanah, N., & Siregar, S. F. (2020). Analisis faktor perilaku seksual remaja di kota medan 1. 01
16. Taher, R. (2021). Faktor-Faktor yang Berhubungan Perilaku Seks Pranikah di SMA Negeri 14 Makassar. Jurnal Ilmiah Keperawatan dan Kebidanan Holistic Care, 5(2)
17. Taufiqurrahmana, Hidayat, A. T., & Wahyuni, D. (2021). Resistensi Remaja terhadap Norma Agama dalam Adat di Luak Limopuluah. Jurnal Sosial Keagamaan, 36(1), 21–44. https://doi.org/10.30631/kontekstualita.36.1.21-44
18. Vembriarto. (2017). Pathologi Sosial. Yogyakarta: Paramita
19. Yafie E. Pendidikan Seksual Anak Usia Dini Jurnal CARE ( Children Advisory Research and Education ) Volume 4 Nomor 2 Januari 2017 PENDAHULUAN Seks , memang masih dianggap tabu untuk dibicarakan oleh sebagian masyarakat kita , terutama orang tua . Mungkin dalam ang. 2020;4:18–30.