The dynamics of social experiences and coping strategies among adolescent girls in Bali: A phenomenological approach

Abstract

Adolescence is a developmental stage characterized by complex biological, psychological, and social transitions. Adolescent girls are particularly vulnerable to anxiety, peer conflict, and academic stress, all of which can negatively impact their mental health. However, limited studies in the existing literature focus on this population's social experiences and coping strategies. Therefore, this study explores the dynamics of social experiences and coping strategies among adolescent girls in Bali who are facing emotional challenges. A qualitative design utilizing Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was adopted for this study. Nine girls aged 13–15 were recruited through purposive sampling based on the following inclusion criteria: being junior high school students, having experienced social or emotional stress in the past six months, demonstrating a willingness to participate, and possessing the ability to verbalize their experiences. The study was conducted from March to May 2025. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews lasting 30–60 minutes, accompanied by field notes and audio recordings. The transcripts were analysed following the standard IPA stages: immersive reading, line-by-line coding, theme clustering, and cross-case interpretation. To ensure trustworthiness, member checking, audit trails, reflexive notes, and thick descriptions were employed. Ethical approval was granted by the Health Research Ethics Committee of STIKes Bina Usada Bali, and informed consent was obtained from the participants. The study documented five themes as follows emotional challenges, including peer conflict, family pressure, bullying, and academic demands; responses such as anxiety, anger, psychosomatic symptoms, and overthinking; social support from family, peers, and partners; coping strategies, both adaptive (sharing, hobbies, affirmations) and maladaptive (withdrawal, avoidance, self-harm); and personal growth through self-confidence, self-awareness, and values learned. These findings emphasize that adolescent girls’ social experiences are shaped by familial, peer, cultural, and academic contexts. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for nurses when developing promotive and preventive interventions to support adolescent mental health.

Keywords: Adolescent girls, coping strategies, mental health, nursing, social experience