The Model of the Formation of Adolescent Sexual Orientation in Indonesia: Case-Control Study

Background: This study examines the social construction of sexual orientation among adolescents, particularly non-heterosexual, in Daerah Khusus Ibukota (DKI) Jakarta, Indonesia. Currently, non-heterosexual adolescents tend to recognize their sexual attraction earlier than previous generations. Methods: A mixed methods approach was used. We conducted in-depth interviews with foundations focused on HIV/AIDS management and groups with non-heterosexual orientations. For the quantitative portion, 267 adolescents (89 non-heterosexual and 178 heterosexual) completed a validated questionnaire. We conducted univariate and bivariate analyses examining gender distribution as well as the association between social construction factors and the formation of sexual orientation. Results: Logistic regression identified key influences on adolescent sexual identity are pornography access, childhood gender nonconformity, peer influence, parenting style, and trauma. There was a significant association between these factors and sexual orientation, with parenting style emerging as the most influential (p < 0.001, OR = 14.442). The case (non-heterosexual) group experienced more negative parenting, trauma, and frequent pornography exposure but reported up to 80% lower peer influence than the control (heterosexual) group. Despite these differences, both groups demonstrated emotional stability; up to 35% identified as gender-conforming. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the importance of targeted interventions to better understand and support adolescent sexual orientation development. It recommends collaborative efforts involving family upbringing and regular school assessments to promote adolescent sexual health. By addressing key contributing factors, including parenting patterns, peer influence, pornography exposure, and childhood gender nonconformity, this research aims to inform strategies for supporting adolescent development. Keywords:Sexual orientation, Adolescents, Non-heterosexual, Heterosexual, Indonesia