Biannual Journal of Applied Counseling

Biannual Journal of Applied Counseling

Studying the Attitude of Teenage Girls Towards Consensual Sharing of Sexual Content

Document Type : Original Research

Authors
1 MA, Department of Counseling, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Allameh Tabatabai University, Tehran, Iran.
2 Associate Professor, Department of Counseling, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Allameh Tabatabai University, Tehran, Iran.
3 PhD Candidate in Counseling, Department of Counseling, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Allameh Tabatabai University, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract
The rapid expansion of social media use among adolescents has emerged as a critical issue in contemporary societies, given its profound and multifaceted impact on their daily lives. Adolescents’ heightened engagement in online communication and personal information sharing increases their vulnerability to adverse experiences, including online harassment. This study examines the attitudes and perceptions of adolescent girls living in Semnan regarding the consensual sharing of sexual content. This topic holds significant importance due to its social and psychological consequences, including cultural and familial influences. This qualitative study employed thematic analysis. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 13 adolescent girls selected through purposive sampling. Data saturation was achieved when no new codes emerged in the final two interviews. Data analysis led to the identification of four main themes: "Conditions and Criteria for Accepting Behavior in Romantic Relationships" (including the importance of stability, commitment in relationships, and ensuring privacy protection), "The Role of Social Factors in the Tendency Toward Behavior" (influenced by behavioral norms during adolescence and dating patterns), "Social Pressure and Familial Considerations" (including fear of social judgment, concerns about reputation and disclosure, and worries about negative consequences for future marriage), and "Gender Role Differences" (including male boasting, strict judgment and the expectation of female perfection, and the victimization of girls). The findings highlight the necessity of considering cultural and social factors influencing adolescent behavior. Unlike previous studies that focused on one or two influential factors, this research simultaneously examined multiple factors affecting adolescent girls' attitudes. The study emphasizes the complex interplay between social expectations, gender roles, and individual decision-making in shaping their perceptions and behaviors
Keywords
Subjects

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Volume 15, Issue 1
August 2025
Pages 82-95

  • Receive Date 04 September 2024
  • Revise Date 13 May 2025
  • Accept Date 20 August 2025