Attitudes of adolescents and parents towards premarital sex in rural Thailand: A qualitative exploration

Abstract

Objective This qualitative study aimed to explore attitudes of Thai parents and adolescents towards premarital sex. Study design Data were collected from 11 focus groups with 30 Thai parents and 36 adolescents aged 15–19 years old in rural areas of Udon Thani province, Thailand and examined using thematic analysis. Results Four themes were identified from the data: the social judgement of girls; boys have nothing to lose; considering risks and parents as problem solvers. All themes relate to the continuing existence of double standards concerning the social norm for premarital sex as applied to young women on one side and young men on the other. Conclusions The influence of traditional values is still very strong in rural north-eastern Thailand. The findings highlight teenagers’ need for more support from their parents. The promotion of open, honest communication between parents and teens is important to overcome difficulties of social judgements and align thinking between old and new social values.