Fostering Adolescent Morality: A Parental Study in Pasar Inuman

Abstract

This study examines the efforts of parents in fostering the moral character of adolescents in Pasar Inuman Village, Indonesia. The research focuses on three main areas: the current moral condition of adolescents, the strategies employed by parents in moral development, and the challenges faced throughout this process. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected through a combination of observation, in-depth interviews, and document analysis. The findings reveal that adolescents in Pasar Inuman Village face various moral challenges, including a lack of discipline in religious observance, disrespect toward elders, and involvement in deviant behaviors. These issues are further exacerbated by the growing influence of technology and social media, which introduce new ethical dilemmas for both parents and adolescents. The moral development efforts undertaken by parents involve multiple strategies such as role modeling, providing advice, habituation, supervision, religious education, emotional support, assigning responsibilities, and creating a supportive environment. However, parents encounter significant obstacles in instilling moral values. These challenges include limited time, insufficient knowledge of contemporary youth issues, family conflicts, negative peer influences, and the pervasive effects of digital technology. The study highlights the complex interaction of these factors and their cumulative impact on the moral development of adolescents in the village. This research underscores the importance of synergy among families, schools, and communities in fostering adolescent morality. It emphasizes the need for adaptive and holistic approaches to moral education that effectively address the unique challenges of the contemporary social landscape. The study contributes to a broader understanding of moral development in transitional societies and provides valuable insights for developing more effective character education strategies in similar contexts.