ANALISIS HUBUNGAN PENGETAHUAN KESEHATAN REPRODUKSI DENGAN SIKAP TERHADAP PERNIKAHAN DINI PADA REMAJA DI KALURAHAN PENDOWOHARJO, BANTUL

Abstract

A comprehensive and accurate understanding of reproductive health is widely recognized as a crucial foundational element in multi-faceted efforts to address and prevent early marriage, a practice with profound implications for individual well-being and public health. This study aims to empirically examine the strength and significance of the relationship between the level of reproductive health knowledge and adolescents' specific attitudes towards early marriage. The research was conducted in the local community context of Kalurahan Pendowoharjo, Sewon District, Bantul Regency. Employing a descriptive quantitative approach with a pre-test/post-test design, data were collected through the distribution of validated questionnaires to a sample of 35 adolescents aged 15-19 years, who are active members of the local youth organization (Karangtaruna). The findings reveal a critical baseline: 65.7% of adolescents initially demonstrated low reproductive health knowledge. Following a targeted educational intervention, this figure shifted dramatically, with 85.7% achieving an adequate level of understanding. In parallel, attitudes showed a marked transformation, as 90.3% of adolescents exhibited a clear tendency to reject early marriage post-intervention. Notably, the most substantial gains in knowledge were observed in understanding the specific risks of early marriage (a 60.2% increase) and its critical relation to national stunting prevention efforts (a 55.4% increase). Statistical correlation analysis yielded a Pearson coefficient of r = 0.732 (p = 0.000), indicating a strong, significant, and positive relationship between heightened reproductive health knowledge and attitudes opposing early marriage. These robust findings confirm the paramount importance of designing and implementing sustained, comprehensive, and culturally-relevant reproductive health education programs. Such initiatives must holistically cover biological, psychological, and social aspects to effectively support optimal adolescent development and serve as a key strategic pillar in preventing early marriage.