International Journal of Public Health Science (IJPHS)
Vol 15, No 3: September 2026

Adolescents’ psychological well-being after parental divorce in Indonesia: an interpretative phenomenological analysis

Slametiningsih Slametiningsih (Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta)
Achir Yani S. Hamid (Universitas Indonesia)
Imami Nur Rachmah (Universitas Indonesia)
Mustikasari Mustikasari (Universitas Indonesia)
Raden Irawati Ismail (Universitas Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Sep 2026

Abstract

Parental divorce has increased in Indonesia and may adversely affect adolescents’ psychological well-being. However, limited qualitative research has explored how adolescents interpret divorce within the Indonesian sociocultural context. This study aimed to explore adolescents’ experiences of psychological well-being following parental divorce and identify coping processes that foster resilience. A qualitative study using an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) approach was conducted. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with five female adolescents aged 14-15 years who had experienced parental divorce. Participants were purposively recruited from a junior high school in Bekasi, Indonesia. Data were analyzed using IPA to examine lived experiences and meaning-making processes. Three themes emerged: i) self-acceptance and identity reconstruction, ii) relational ecosystems as double-edged support systems, and iii) transition from survival strategies to purposeful autonomy. Participants described grief, self-blame, academic disruption, and social stigma. However, supportive relationships with peers, extended family, and teachers promoted adaptive coping and resilience. These findings highlight that parental divorce affects adolescent psychological well-being, but supportive environments can mitigate negative outcomes. School-based mental health programs, anti-stigma initiatives, and culturally sensitive counseling services are recommended to support adolescents experiencing family transitions.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

IJPHS

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions

Description

International Journal of Public Health Science (IJPHS) is an interdisciplinary journal that publishes material on all aspects of public health science. This IJPHS provides the ideal platform for the discussion of more sophisticated public health research and practice for authors and readers world ...