Factors that promote and impede other-sex friendships: a qualitative study of Iranian adolescent girls

Abstract

Abstract Aim: The aim of this study was to identify factors that promote and impede other-sex (OS) friendships in adolescent girls. Methods: A qualitative study conducted with 20 adolescent girls recruited in public places in Tehran, Iran. Information was collected through semi-structured interviews and coded via the conventional qualitative content analysis approach. Results: Four factors were identified that appeared to promote entry into OS friendships. These factors include (a) a poor understanding of perceived risks, (b) weak religious beliefs, (c) processes of identity formation, and (d) low self-esteem. In addition, six factors appeared to impede entry into these friendships: (a) self-confidence, (b) prioritizing education, (c) maintaining particular entertainment preferences, (d) awareness of prior unpleasant experiences with boys, (e) having strong religious convictions, and (f) shaming from significant others. Conclusion: These findings provide unique insights into the factors that stem from different levels of social complexity, which affect participation in a fundamental form of human experience.