FACTORS AFFECTING THE INVOLVEMENT OF PREMARITAL SEX AMONG

ADOLECENTS IN BARANGAY BAGONG BAYAN PUERTO PRICESSA CITY

PALAWAN

A Research Proposal
Presented to the faculty
Of the Science, Technology
Engineering and Mathematics
Of the Senior High School

In Partial Fulfillment
Of the Requirements in
Research/Capstone Project

By

AMBAL, ABDUL RAFFY Y.

BACUEL, IAN JOSEF S.
CAHIGAN, MERVIN QUINNE A.
FERRER, JASSER BEN L.
FUDOT, SHEILA MAE B.
GAYAMO, OLIVER JR.
GUPILAN, JOHN KELVIN S.
JACINTO, KURT HARRY C.
JARIN, HJA EIZEL K.
LABRADOR, EZEKIEL A.
LADAG, ALYSSA ASHELY
ORDAS, FEAH ANGELINE
PERALTA, AUDREY VON.
SAMPILO, KEVIN KYLE L.
SIEVERT, SHENNA MAE
TAGLE, KYLA
 Chapter 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

Premarital sex refers to the act of engaging in any sexual activity with

another person, the same or opposite sex, before starting a married life.

Traditionally considered taboo in many cultures, premarital sex has become

increasingly common in recent years. Some view premarital sex as a natural and

enjoyable part of a healthy relationship, while others consider it morally

reprehensible. Premarital sex often shaped by religious teachings and beliefs, in

part because ancient religious texts forbid it. People who actively practice religion

are less likely to engage in premarital sex or at least go longer before having sex

for the first time. Muslims and Hindus are less likely to report having premarital

sex than Christians, Islam has the greatest effect of attitudes on premarital sex.

The involvement in sexual intercourse by persons who have not engaged

in marital vow or culturally recognized as having been enrolled in marriage

institution. Although marriage rites take different forms depending on cultural

permissiveness nevertheless the major thrust is the acceptance by the society. In

most cases, premarital sex is not always a problem to individuals who are

sexually matured since they may view it as a natural response to a natural

stimulus. However, premarital sex is morally unacceptable in almost every human

society that regards marriage as the legitimate requirement for sexual

permissiveness, and especially among youths who are considered vulnerable to

health – related problems.

People in predominantly Muslim societies have the lowest report of

engaging in premarital sex. A study in Hartnett, Kevin et al (2013), found that over

2
60% of Muslims reported to have had sex before marriage, compare to 65% of

Hindus, 71% of Christians (primarily in Europe and North America), 84% of

Jewish and over 85% of Buddhists who reported to have had sex before marriage.

Christianity, Judaism, and Islam have strict rules about specific behaviors and sex

outside of marriage, in contrast, "Buddhism does not have similarly strict rules

about specific behaviors". Students who attend a faith-based (predominantly

Christian) university view premarital sexual activity more negatively than students

who do not.

Furthermore, campaigns on the risks of sexually transmitted infections and

unplanned pregnancy from unprotected sex, majority of today’s young people had

their first premarital sex experience without the use of condom or any other form

of contraception to protect from pregnancy or sexually-transmitted disease.

Sexual behaviors of adolescents and youth are categorized as one of the main

health priorities of a society because of high prevalence of human

immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS),

sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and unwanted pregnancies. Family is an

important environment that is associated with a range of social and emotional

behaviors of children. This study was aimed at explaining the actions and

functions of families in youths’ engagement in sexual relations.

According to Sherman et al. (2021), among the reasons why premarital sex

is becoming common among young people is their low and varying perception on

it. Research regarding adolescent perception and practices as they relate to

premarital sex has previously documented various sexually risky behaviors

among adolescents. Aside from inconsistent condom use, multiple sexual

3
partners and higher risks of earlier onset of sexual activities are prevalent among

adolescents.

Statement of the Problem

This study aims to gain understanding on the perception of the residences

in barangay Bagong-bayan Puerto Princesa City Palawan.

Specifically, the study seeks to answer the following questions:

1.What is the demographic profile of the respondents in terms of:

a. Age;

b. Gender;

c. Religion;

e. Sexually Active?

2. What are the perception of the respondents regarding the factors

associated with the premarital sex?

3. What are the perception of the respondents regarding common risks

encountered engaged in premarital sex?

Assumption

1. Individuals who engage in premarital sex exhibit a varied demographic profile.

Typically, they are young adults aged between 18 and 35, as this demographic

often explores romantic relationships and sexuality during the transition to

adulthood. While both genders are likely represented, there may be a slight male

4
skew due to societal norms or cultural influences on reporting tendencies.

Regarding religion, respondents come from diverse backgrounds, with a higher

proportion from more liberal or less conservative religious communities where

premarital sex is more socially acceptable. Income levels vary, but many

respondents likely belong to middle to upper-middle-income brackets, which can

influence relationship dynamics and access to resources such as contraception or

healthcare. Living arrangements also vary; while some may reside with their

parents, particularly among younger age groups or in cultures with

multigenerational households, others may live independently or with roommates,

especially among older respondents or in urban settings. Overall, the

demographic profile of individuals engaging in premarital sex encompasses a

wide range of ages, genders, religious affiliations, income levels, and living

situations, emphasizing the complexity and diversity within this population.

2. One assumption about the perception of respondents regarding common risks

encountered in premarital sex could be that they might underestimate the

potential consequences, such as sexually transmitted infections, unintended

pregnancies, emotional distress, and societal judgment, due to factors like

societal norms, peer influence, or lack of comprehensive sex education.

3. An assumption about the perception of respondents regarding the factors

associated with premarital sex could be that they might believe factors such as

individual autonomy, romantic relationships, societal norms, peer pressure, and

media influence play significant roles in their decision-making process, potentially

outweighing traditional moral or religious considerations for some individuals.

5
Significance of the Study

The School may provide insight into the perception of premarital sex among its

students, which may help the school create more effective sexual education

programs; they also help the school develop interventions to promote reproductive

health among its students;

The Parents, may understand the factors affecting their children's attitudes

towards premarital sex and sexual wellbeing.

The Students, may become more aware of their own perception towards

premarital sex and how it affects their sexual wellbeing; and make informed

decisions about their sexual health.

The Researchers may contribute to the existing body of literature on premarital

sex and sexual wellbeing empowerment; May inspire further research on the

topic, particularly in other schools.

The Future Researchers may use this research a reference or starting point for

future research on premarital sex and sexual wellbeing empowerment; May help

future researchers identify gaps in the literature and areas that need further

exploration

6
Scope in Delimitation

This study is entitled Premarital Sex Assessment for Sexual Well-being

Empowerment this study aims to determine the common risk encountered by the

respondent that engaged in Premarital Sex.

Locale. The Map of barangay Bagong-bayan Puerto Princessa City

Palawan

Figure 1. Map of Barangay, Bagong-bayan

Time Frame. The study started on February 2024 and will end in May 2024

Participants. The participants in the study are the Residence of Barangay

Bagong-bayan with ages ranging from 18 to 35.

7
 CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

This chapter presents the relevant literature and studies local or foreign taken

some books journal published thesis and dissertation and from internet.

Premarital Sex Increasing Worldwide

According to the World Health Organization, an adolescent is an individual

aged from 10 to 19 years. Adolescent is the time of transition from childhood to

adulthood and characterized by significant physical, mental, and behavioral

changes that may place their life at high risk (Uecker R. et, al).

However, premarital sexual activities among adolescents are increasing

from time to time worldwide particularly in developing countries like Ethiopia

(Cooper L et, al). The premarital sexual practice among those adolescents is

unprotected and predisposes for different sexual and reproductive health

problems (Clure M. et al). For instance, about 45% of all new HIV infections

globally occurred among adolescents aged 15–24 years. In Africa, 60% of all new

HIV infections occur in adolescents aged 15–19 years. Each year, about 15

million adolescents aged 15–19 years gave birth; a large proportion of these

pregnancies were unwanted, as many as 4 million experienced unsafe abortion,

and up to 100 million were affected by STDs.

Furthermore, the study of Charmie et., al (2013) A global survey conducted

several years ago involving 40 countries, covering three-fourths of the world's

population, found a minority, 46 percent, saying that sex between unmarried

adults

8
was morally unacceptable. However, a distinct split in attitudes concerning the

acceptability of premarital sex was observed between developed and developing

countries.). Premarital sex, defined as voluntary sexual intercourse between

unmarried persons, is increasing worldwide. While traditional values, religious

instructions and the laws of some countries continue to prescribe abstinence until

marriage, the rapid societal changes that have occurred across all regions during

the past half-century have resulted in the growing prevalence and acceptability of

premarital sex. Different studies conducted in developing countries revealed that

substance use, peer influence, living arrangement, age, having pocket money,

watching pornographic video and misconceptions on sexual risk behaviors were

factors associated with premarital sexual practice and its complications (Adeoye

et., al.). Although there were very limited studies, the risks of sexual and

reproductive health problems are higher among adolescents. (Dahab S. et, al)

Likewise, some studies and systematic reviews have examined sexual

intercourse behavior in various countries, a systematic review of contraceptive

practices among unmarried women is lacking. (Munakampe et., al.) Unmarried

women are a particularly important population to understand because they may

have more partners than older, married women and their sexual and reproductive

health practices may be less stable over time. (Moskosky S, et al.) In other words,

the behaviors of unmarried women may strongly influence the sexual and

reproductive health of the larger population and may be more amenable to

modification through appropriate public health campaigns and interventions.

(Parry M, et al.)

9
 According to the Global Strategy for Women's, Children's and Adolescents’

Health of the United Nations, the health of young people, particularly the sexual

and reproductive health of young unmarried people, has become a global public

health concern. As global development continues, the prevalence of premarital

sexual intercourse among young people has risen, exposing adolescents to the

challenges of contraceptive practices and unplanned pregnancies.

Sex Educational Approach in Philippine Education System

According to the DRDF and UPPI (2014), only 27.4% of the cohort

answered that they have adequate knowledge on sex. Given this level of

knowledge, it has been argued and encouraged that sex should be discussed at

home. However, their data show that sex-related discussion at home with the

guidance of parents remains low (9.7%) and has declined in the past 10 years

(DRDF & UPPI, 2014). The report shows that participants from this age group

identified their friends (37.6%) and mothers (27%) as possible resources of sexual

health information. Around a fifth of Filipino youth (22%) reported not consulting

anyone about SRH.

Likewise, this reality is further complicated by the fact that nearly half of

Filipino youth (41.6%) have no material sources of information on sex. Although

more than half (52%) of those in school have reported having someone to consult,

this number is lower compared to previous years. In acknowledgement of the

vulnerability of Filipino youth to SRH problems and the gaps in the SRH

knowledge of Filipino youth, the Philippine Congress passed. The Responsible

Parenthood and Reproductive Act of 2012, RA 10345 stipulates the integration

10
and implementation of the Comprehensive Sexual Education in the Philippine K-

12 Education System. Consequently,

According to the study Shenna Michelle Jorvina J to et al. (2023)

Comprehensive sexuality education is a curriculum that aims to teach young

learners with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to have a better view about

sexuality and healthy relationships. It promotes safe, reliable, non-judgmental,

and effective sexuality education by using age and developmentally appropriate

information, learning strategies, teaching methods, and materials. This research

determined the level of implementation of the policy aims of CSE in Labo West

District and the level of knowledge of teachers on the said policy. The researchers

designed questionnaire to collect these data. The aforementioned data were

analyzed using weighted mean and Pearson r to establish the correlation between

the two variables. The study further discusses the mechanism of the district to

instill awareness on sexuality education among learners to decrease health risk

behaviors among young children.

Further, the Department of Education (2018) released policy guidelines on

the implementation of a CSE curriculum in the country. Central to the policy is the

recognition of sexual health education as a preventive measure to several of the

SRH problems that the Filipino youth currently face. These policy developments

are welcomed since sexual health education presents students with opportunities

to be informed and empowered in making proactive decisions about their sexuality

(Nyika et al., 2016). This is especially true for the Filipino youth who are more

vulnerable because of their co-existing and intersecting experiences of

marginalization and oppression. This vulnerable group includes adolescents in

11
conflict with the law, adolescents from geographically isolated and disadvantaged

areas, and adolescents from indigenous communities (Vinluan & Flores-Kitong,

2017). Such as, emphasis on the adoption and adaptation of age and

development-appropriate CSE in both formal and non-formal education settings

remain an important call to action for duty-bearers (UNFPA Philippines, 2020)

Moreover, the impact of sex education on various behavioral outcomes has

been well studied in the literature. However, these studies fail to account for the

simultaneity between knowledge demand and sexual behavior, leading to

inconsistent effect estimates using simple comparison of means from randomized

control interventions. A theoretical model of sexual behavior and sexually

transmitted infection (STI) information demand is proposed to motivate the

discussion. We show that the effect of STI knowledge on sexual behavior

depends on how information affects the expected cost from sexual activity. We

provide empirical evidence using Philippine data that increasing HIV/AIDS

knowledge delays sexual initiation, limits sexual activity, and increases condom

use among some subpopulation of female young adults (Michael R.M.et al 2017)

According to Sung-Sang Yoo et al., (2023) The Philippines has adopted

reproductive health education in schools with the passing of the Responsible

Parenthood and Reproductive Health Law in 2012 which promised multi-

dimensional support on reproductive health including RHE. Although there is

urgent need for RH policy to enhance family planning and to reduce high teenage

pregnancy, this law continues to be extremely controversial, conflicting with

Filipino socio-cultural norms, mainly based on Catholic beliefs. Based on this

context, this research aims to examine how RHE is implemented in Filipino

12
schools. For the research, a qualitative case study was conducted in a Filipino

city. Results show that each local stakeholder has a different concept of RH and

delivers their own perceived concept of RH. Sex education is a rare subject to be

implemented in our curriculum because of the common misconception that it

triggers students to have sex. In reality, sex education aims to inform our learners

about the consequences of premarital sex and its negative impact on the

emotional, physical and social aspects of a person. Sex education can be

uncomfortable for teachers to teach inside the class because it is unfamiliar to

everyone in the Philippine curriculum. (Acosta et, al. 2019)

Peer Group and Negative Effect

Participants identified peer groups and the negative influence of friends,

colleagues, and environment as responsible for the occurrence of premarital sex

among adolescents in secondary schools. When students are negatively

influenced by the behaviors of other students and friends with questionable

character, they tend to behave in antisocial ways including having premarital sex.

Thus, “bad company corrupts good manners”. Data equally found that a well-

trained student can be easily influenced by the kind of friends or peers he/she

keeps both within and outside the school. Negative influence appeared repeatedly

from participants as one of the major predictors of premarital sex among

adolescent students.

Furthermore, the knowledge of sex education and peer group pressure and

the negative influence of friends among others are responsible for premarital sex

in the study area. This finding is in tandem with the results of Okafor-Udah and

Soucy (2014), which found that lack of relevant education for the youth, peer

13
group influence, drug abuse among the youth especially the abuse of alcohol,

pornographic films, and literature, parents neglect of their duties as models to

their children, influence from television and videos, are responsible for premarital

sexual activities among adolescent students. According to Musa (2020), it is

important to impart knowledge about sex and sexuality to adolescents.

Likewise, the findings of the study equally revealed that poverty, poor

parental upbringing, mass media, and urbanization contribute to premarital sex

among students. This agrees with the study of Eze (2014), Oyediran (2020),

Stoebenau et al. (2016), which reported that poor upbringing, moral decadence of

the parents without inculcating the ethical value in the children, urbanization,

mass media, family type, and poor socioeconomic status will influence them

negatively. Further investigations found that cultism, illicit drug, and alcohol intake

are also responsible for the occurrence of premarital sex among adolescent

students. It was reported that some students join cult groups just to intimidate

other students into sex.

Moreover, adolescence is a crucial and transitional stage in life, from

childhood to adulthood that is characterized by curiosity and adventures (Aleke et

al., 2021); and often associated with heightened risk-taking, including premarital

sex (Liang et al., 2019). Premarital sexual activity is a common sexual

experimentation among adolescents (Yip et al., 2013), which usually involves

behaviors such as multiple sexual partners (Teferra et al., 2015), inconsistent or

non-condom use, and consumption of pornography (Akililu et al., 2015)

(Chihurumnanya et al., 2016). The prevalence of premarital sexual activity among

adolescent students has been attributed to some factors, and an unhealthy

14
relationship between the opposite sex was identified as one. Data revealed that

erotic relationships among students eventually lead to unwarranted sexual

intercourse. This erotic relationship among the teen students always leads them

into kissing, hugging, caressing, clubbing, and subsequently, into sexual practice.

Most students get involved in this type of relationship because they want to

“belong” as they may be mocked by their randy friends (big boys/girls) if they

found that they do not have friends of the opposite sex, or that they are still

virgins. A participant quipped:

The rate of teenage pregnancy and the high level of indulgence in

premarital sex among school children in this 21st century have become subjects

of discourse (Ogbueghu, 2017). These children have been observed engaging in

sexual activities without proper education, and as such, they are exposed and

induced to unfamiliar risks and Sexually Transmitted Diseases such as gonorrhea,

syphilis, candidiasis, chlamydia, and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome and

so on (Ezeugwu & Ede, 2016).

Common Diseases Acquired in Active Premarital Sex

There are several factors that can influence young people into engaging

themselves into risky sexual behaviors such as engaging themselves in

unprotected sex. The aftermaths of these behaviors on health among the young

entails a range of issues like sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV/AIDS,

unintended pregnancies, teenage pregnancy and need for abortion services.

Health implications aside, premarital sex also has social and psychological

impacts. These effects can be seen in low self-esteem, remorsefulness, lack of

familial backing loneliness resulting from depression related risk factors such as

15
harmful cultural practices which unlike personal development predispose one to

substance dependency up-to suicidal ideation (Abdullahi & Umar, 2013; Perera &

Abeysena, 2018; Shrestha, 2019).

Further, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or sexually transmitted

infections (STIs) are types of infections that spread from one person to another

through sexual activities. In most cases, they are passed on during sexual acts

such as vaginal, oral and anal sex. However, there are times when these

conditions can also be contracted via other forms of sexual contact involving the

penis, vagina, mouth or anus because specific STDs like herpes and HPV can be

acquired by direct skin-to-skin touch. Therefore, an infection may occur without

being known until complications become serious or a partner gets infected with an

STI (National Library of Medicine, n.d.). There is no set time frame for when STIs

appear; some show up days after exposure while others may take years to

develop symptoms (Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), 2023).

The family plays a very important role in the formation of different social

behaviors in children as it is a major environment. The family has one of its main

objectives to see children socialized. In this process, young ones learn religious

beliefs, cultural values, and behavioral norms that are considered proper by their

society (Meunier et al., 2011). For instance, the family becomes a structured

system that affects kids. In families, daily activities, dynamics and diversities are

considered crucial factors for children’s development. Family support and good

health contribute to children’s welfare and progress encouraging them to grow

and develop themselves. On the contrary, any problems or disruptions within it

16
can lead to deviant conduct among members of the same family (Fiese & Winter,

2008).

Studies have looked at the sociodemographic and behavioral aspects

linked to STI transmission in addition to clarifying the incidence and health effects

of STIs in the setting of premarital sex. Numerous factors have been identified as

significant drivers of STI risk, including age, gender, socioeconomic status,

relationship dynamics, and characteristics of the sexual network. Developing

focused treatments to lower STI transmission rates and address health

inequalities among at-risk populations requires an understanding of these

characteristics. Studies have indicated that stigma and prejudice have a

significant effect in increasing the prevalence of STIs among those who have

premarital intercourse. Delays in diagnosis and higher transmission rates can

result from stigmatizing attitudes regarding STI diagnosis and disclosure, which

can also serve as obstacles to getting tested and receiving treatment. Therefore, it

is essential to address stigma through education, awareness campaigns, and

destigmatization initiatives in order to promote sexual health and wellbeing.

(Scheinfeld, Emily 2018)

The age of first sex has significantly reduced generally in the modern

society, particularly Nigeria. Youths often dare the consequences of premarital

sex to fulfil sexual desire which in most cases have dire effects on their health,

education and social lives. This study investigated possible causes of premarital

sex among youths as perceived by lecturers of University of Ilorin, Nigeria. The

descriptive survey method was used for the study while a total of 160 respondents

were purposively selected. The t-test statistical analysis was used to test the

17
stated null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. (Ajiboye et, al 2014). A rising

corpus of research on the prevalence rates and health effects of sexually

transmitted infections obtained through active premarital sexual activity has been

published in recent years. The significance of comprehending the dynamics of

sexually transmitted infections among young adults and the pressing requirement

for prevention measures have been emphasized by this research. Through the

analysis of prevalence rates of sexually transmitted infections including

gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, and human papillomavirus (Chimezie 2022).

Furthermore, major public health concern is the prevalence rates and

health effects of STIs acquired during active premarital sex. raise awareness, and

lessen the impact of STIs on individuals and communities by illuminating the

scope of the issue and pinpointing important factors that contribute to STI

transmission. The problems that STIs present in the context of premarital sex can

only be solved with sustained efforts to increase stigma reduction, expand

comprehensive sexual education, and improve access to sexual health services.

Fewer young Filipinos are having sex before marriage and those who do will use

a condom or other sexual protection for their first time, a nationwide survey by

the (UP) revealed. But those who engage in “high-risk sexual activities”—such as

one-night stands and transactional sex—are less likely to use protection,

(Dempsey Reyes 2022)

Moreover, the World Health Organization reported that in developing

regions, ∼16 million girls aged 15 to 19 years and 2.5 million girls under 16 years

gave birth in 2015. simultaneously, teenage sexually transmitted infections and

acquired immune deficiency syndrome have become major health concerns in the

18
world. Studies from many parts of the world link these phenomena to limited

access to SRH information and inadequate family planning and contraception.

Poor knowledge of SRH, use of less-effective contraceptive methods, or failure to

use any contraception at all contribute to this dangerous reproductive health

situation among young people, particularly unmarried individuals. Several

countries have implemented strategies to promote contraception and improve

SRH among unmarried women, but they have proven ineffective in many regions.

Synthesis

A. Premarital Sex Increasing Worldwide

Premarital sexual activity among adolescents, increasingly prevalent

worldwide, particularly in developing countries like Ethiopia, poses

significant risks to sexual and reproductive health, including HIV infections,

unwanted pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and STDs. Factors contributing

to this trend include rapid societal changes, substance use, peer influence,

and misconceptions about sexual risk behaviors. Unmarried women, who

may have more partners and less stable sexual and reproductive health

practices, are particularly vulnerable. Despite efforts to promote

contraception and improve sexual and reproductive health among

unmarried women, challenges persist due to limited access to information

and inadequate family planning. Consequently, teenage STIs and AIDS

have become major health concerns globally. Addressing these challenges

requires comprehensive strategies to increase awareness, access to

contraception, and family planning services among adolescents.

19
B. Sex Educational Approach in Philippine Education System

The data from DRDF and UPPI (2014) highlight a concerning lack of

sexual health knowledge among Filipino youth, with only 27.4% reporting

adequate knowledge and a decline in sex-related discussions at home with

parents. Instead, friends and mothers are often identified as sources of

sexual health information, underscoring the need for comprehensive sexual

education (CSE) in schools. Shenna Michelle Jorvina J. et al.'s (2023)

study emphasizes CSE's importance in promoting safe and effective

sexuality education, supported by the Department of Education's policy

guidelines recognizing sexual health education as crucial for informed

decision-making. However, challenges persist, including cultural norms

conflicting with reproductive health policies, as discussed by Sung-Sang

Yoo et al. (2023). Despite misconceptions about sex education's effects,

Acosta et al. (2019) argue for its necessity in informing learners about the

consequences of premarital sex. Thus, addressing gaps in sexual health

knowledge through CSE implementation remains essential for empowering

Filipino youth to make informed decisions about their sexuality and health

C. Peer Group and Negative Effect

The prevalence of premarital sex among adolescents in secondary

schools is multifaceted, influenced by various factors such as peer groups,

negative associations, and societal pressures. Participants highlighted the

pervasive impact of peer pressure and the negative influence of friends and

colleagues, emphasizing the role of social dynamics in shaping adolescent

behaviors, including engaging in premarital sex. Lack of sex education,

parental neglect, and socio-economic factors like poverty and exposure to

20
 mass media further exacerbate this trend. Additionally, substance abuse,

cultism, and unhealthy relationships contribute to the occurrence of

premarital sex among adolescents. The transition from childhood to

adulthood, marked by curiosity and risk-taking behaviors, often leads to

experimentation with premarital sex, driven by societal expectations and

desires to belong. Comprehensive sex education and parental guidance

are crucial in addressing the underlying factors and mitigating the risks

associated with adolescent sexual activity.

D. Common Diseases Acquired in Active Premarital Sex

Various studies have examined the sociodemographic and

behavioral factors associated with sexually transmitted infection (STI)

transmission, particularly in the context of premarital sex. Factors such as

age, gender, socioeconomic status, and relationship dynamics play

significant roles in STI risk. Stigma surrounding STIs can contribute to

higher prevalence rates among individuals engaging in premarital

intercourse, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Addressing

stigma through education and awareness campaigns is essential for

promoting sexual health and wellbeing. Furthermore, research emphasizes

the need for comprehensive sexual education and improved access to

sexual health services to mitigate the impact of STIs. While there is

evidence of declining rates of premarital sex among young Filipinos, those

engaging in high-risk sexual activities remain less likely to use protection,

highlighting the ongoing need for targeted interventions (Ajiboye et al.,

2014).

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 Conceptual Framework

INPUT PROCESS
OUTPUT
*Demographic Profile
of the respondents.
*Open ended survey
*Perception towards Questions *Infographic Brochure
premarital sex

Figure 2

Definition of Terms

Premarital sex: Sexual activity between individuals who have not formalized their

relationship through marriage vows or cultural recognition

Adolescent: An individual aged between 10 and 19 years, undergoing significant

physical, mental, and behavioral changes during the transition from childhood to

adulthood.

Sexual health: The state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being

related to sexuality, encompassing positive and respectful sexual relationships,

free from coercion, discrimination, and violence.

Family dynamics: Patterns of interaction, communication, and relationships

within a family unit, influencing individual behaviors, attitudes, and experiences.

22
 CHAPTER 3

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY

This chapter presents the research design, sampling method and

techniques, instrumentation, research methods and procedures, and data analysis

used in this study. It also includes ethical consideration dealing with human

participants, vertebrate animals, potentially hazardous biological agents, and

hazardous activities and devises

RESEARCH DESIGN

This study used a survey phenomenology research design to collect data

from the residence of Barangay Bagong-bayan Puerto Princessa City Palawan a

qualitative approach was used to describe the demographic profile and assess

perceptions of the participants toward premarital sex. The data collected from the

survey will be the basis to make a program for sexual well-being and

empowerment.

SAMPLING TECHNIQUE AND PROCEDURE

The researcher will employ simple random sampling techniques in location of

barangay Bagong-bayan Puerto Princessa City

According to the study of Lauren Thomas simple random sample is a

randomly selected subset of a population. In this sampling method, each member

of the population has an exactly equal chance of being selected. This method is

the most straightforward of all the probability sampling method since it only

23
involves a single random selection and requires little advance knowledge about

the population.

Instrumentation

Constructed and designed semi structured survey questionnaires was

utilized, the said instrument was divided into three parts: informed consent,

demographic profile of the participants, and perception towards premarital sex.

The first part will seek the participants’ approval to participate in the study. This

part will explain how the participant can participate in the study, the risks involved

in participating, and the assurance of data confidentiality. The second part is the

demographic profile, where the participants will provide the following personal

information: age, Gender, Religion Monthly Family income, Living with Parents.

The third part will measure the participants’ attitude towards premarital sex. The

fourth part of the research instrument aimed to measure the participants’

perceptions on premarital sex.

Data Gathering Procedures

Before the actual data gathering procedure, permission to gather data was

requested from the Barangay Bagong-bayan Puerto Princessa Palawan, a

consent was secured from the participants before they were allowed to

accomplish the questionnaire. It was ensured that before the actual data

gathering, the target participants were oriented on the objectives and importance

of conducting this kind of study. We Researchers assured that their Identity and

responses would be kept with utmost confidentiality.

24
Data Analysis.

Appropriate statistical tools and tests was used to analyzed the data

gathered in the study. Frequency and percentage were used to show the

distribution of the participants in terms of their demographic profile such as age,

gender and religion. Likewise, in terms of determining the participants’ overall

perception towards premarital sex, the mean response and its standard deviation

was computed.

Risk and Safety

Precautionary measures will be strictly observed during the conduct of the

study including safety during travel and safety during the conduct of surveys.

25
Ethical Consideration

The researchers obtained informed consent from each respondent before

their participation in the study. The consent process provided the participants with

complete and clear details of the survey, including the purpose, objectives,

methods, and use of data. The issues of confidentiality and anonymity will also be

explained to the participants. The respondents were informed that their

involvement in the study is voluntary and that they can withdraw from the study at

any time and for any reason without penalty. The participants will be given the

opportunity to ask questions and receive answers to their satisfaction. The

informed consent process was documented, and the participants' consent will be

obtained in writing. The confidentiality and anonymity of the participants was

strictly maintained throughout the study. The data collected was kept confidential

and accessible only to the researchers involved in the study. The respondents’

identities were kept anonymous, and their personal information was not disclosed

to any third party. Overall, the researchers ensured that the informed consent

process is conducted ethically and that the respondents fully understand the

study's purpose, procedures, and implications. The researchers also maintained

the confidentiality and anonymity of the participants throughout the study to

ensure the protection of their privacy.

26
 CHAPTER 4

PRESENTATION, INTERPRETATION, AND ANALYSIS

This chapter mainly presents the analysis and interpretation of data used in

the study. The date is presented and arranged according to the questions raised

in the statement of the problem in Chapter 1

The Demographic Profile of the Respondents

Age Frequency Percentage

18 12

19 2

20 3

21 2

22 1

23 5

24 5

25 1

26 2

27 4

28 4

29 4

27
 30 3

31 3

32 1

33 4

34 6

35 9

Religion Frequency Percentage

Catholic 48

Zion 1

Couples for Christ 1

INC 10

Baptist 10

Adventist 1

Sexually active Frequency Percentage

28
 Yes 37

No 34

Survey Questions

Rating Scale

Questions Strongly Strongly Mean

Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Agree

1 2 3 4 5

1. Are you
familiar with
term premarital 0 21 1 48 1
sex?

2. Do you
believe that
premarital sex is 2 41 5 23 0
morally
acceptable

3. Have you
discussed
sexually health 4 19 1 46 1
and
contraception
with your
partner?

29
4. Are you
currently
practicing any 3 33 3 31 1
form of
contraception?

5. In your
opinion, should
young people 12 0 1 55 3
be open to
discussing
sexuality and
sexual
relationships
before
marriage?

6. In your
opinion, should
parents guide 3 0 1 61 6
their children
about sexual
relationships
before
marriage?

In table 1.1

30
 Do you Agree with the Following Risk Caused by Premarital Sex?

Risk of Strongly Strongl

Premarital Sex Disagree Disagree Neutral y Agree
Agree Mean

1 2 3 4 5

STD’S 2 4 7 6 52

Health-physical 1 6 4 22 38

Mental/ 0 5 9 19 38
Emotional Health

Studies 2 3 7 14 45

Financial 1 5 9 16 40

Early Pregnancy 2 5 5 11 48

In table 1.2

31
Chapter 5

32
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