RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PEERS INTERACTION WITH SMOKING BEHAVIOUR IN YOUTH AT SMKN 1 CIREBON

Adolescents represent a population that is particularly susceptible to engaging in
risky behaviors, with smoking being one of the most prevalent. This behavior is influenced
by multiple factors, one of which is peer interaction. Within adolescent social environments,
peer relationships play a significant role in shaping attitudes and predispositions toward
smoking. Smoking is often perceived as a symbol of maturity and a means of fostering social
bonds, particularly within school communities. Accordingly, this study aims to examine the
relationship between peer interaction and smoking behavior among adolescents at SMKN
1 Cirebon.
This study used quantitative methods with a cross-sectional design. The sample
consisted of 86 eleventh-grade students selected through proportional stratified random
sampling. Data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire, including questions on
peer interaction and smoking frequency. Data were analyzed using Chi-Square test to
identify the relationship between variables. The study was conducted at SMKN 1 Cirebon
in March 2025.
The results showed that 45.3% of respondents had moderate peer interaction, 37.2%
had poor, and 17.4% had good. A total of 52.3% of respondents smoked with varying
intensities (light 23.3%, moderate 16.3%, heavy 12.8%). Statistical tests resulted in a pvalue of 0.000 <(0.05), indicating a significant relationship between peer interaction and
smoking behavior in adolescents at SMKN 1 Cirebon.
The conclusion of this study confirms that there is a relationship between peers and
smoking behavior in adolescents at SMKN 1 Cirebon. The recommendations from this study
are to develop a student training program as agents of change, optimize extracurricular
activities, and strengthen smoke-free zone regulations in the school environment.
Keywords: youth, smoking behavior, peer interaction
Bibliography: 52 (2018 - 2025)