Explaining the Effects of Interactions with Friends and Peers on Pre-marital Sexual Relationships among Iranian Youths

Aim: Nowadays, sexual behaviours of the youths have turned into a controversial issue all over the world due to widespread sexually transmitted infections (STIs), human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) and unwanted pregnancies. Regarding the increasing interactions of the youths with their friends and peers in Iranian society in the recent years, this research was conducted to explain the role of friends and peers to establish pre-marital sexual relationships among the youths. Methods: This qualitative research was conducted on 30 single boys and girls aged 18-24 years, living in Isfahan, Iran, who had already started sexual activities and 17 other participants who were in a way involved in the experienced events by the youths. Data collection was done using semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using conventional content analysis. Findings: After analyzing the interviews, two sub-categories emerged including being influenced by friends and peers and exchanging sexual information and contents , which were entitled The effects of youths, interactions with friends and peers as the main category. Conclusion: Considering the important role of friends and peers in shaping pre-marital sexual relationships among the youths, providing them with comprehensive educational programs about STIs, HIV/AIDS, and sexual health protection through peer-based educational approach is necessary.

Keywords:

Sexual behavior , Pre-marital sex behavior , Peers , Youth , Iran