Author: Anis Akmilah binti Mat Hassan _^K.B.;P.A.

The romance phase among teenagers is better known as 'puppy love' which is love that is only temporary and not serious (Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, Fourth Edition). Puppy love is often associated as romantic love, love at first sight for male and female couples who grow up in their teens. Puppy love doesn't demand commitment like adult love does. Even if it is just exchanging love letters, exchanging gifts and supporting each other in learning, it is enough to make the couple happy and happy in the relationship.

There are some parents who look seriously at teenage couples who are in love. This can be seen when children are blocked from making friends with the opposite sex and prevent children from going out to socialize. Undoubtedly, the phenomenon of uncontrollable adolescent love can lead to adolescent social symptoms such as running away from home, abandoning children, moral decay, and poor academic performance. However, it is the parents' responsibility to convey messages and awareness about the dangers of adultery as well as guarding private parts, the limits of association and limitations in socializing according to religious demands.

When seen from a positive aspect, this teenage love relationship can be a catalyst for the emotional and mental development of teenagers who need the support and support of their peers. According to Family Motivation and Counseling Consultant, Dr Robiah K Hamzah in an interview with Harian Metro (2020), puppy love occurs when two individuals exchange feelings of love at an immature age. He said again, whether the parents like it or not, these things still happen in the children's lives because of the nature that God has determined for every human being. Therefore, the love that is present at this teenage age needs to be seen from a broad and positive context. If this puppy's love is only seen from a negative point of view, then it will be seen as a negative influence. However, when this love is guided in a positive direction, it can help build self-confidence in them. Built love is human nature. Therefore, the extent to which a person organizes the romance that is experienced in line with manners, religious demands and maintaining the boundaries of society will certainly lead to a positive experience in the development of the teenager himself. In fact, this experience will form a positive identity for the youth concerned.

Referring to the psychological writing entitled Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Theory (2023), there are 5 basic human needs which are physiological needs (eating, sleeping, exercise), safety needs (feeling safe), love and being loved, self-acceptance needs and realization/actualization needs self It can be seen that, after physiological and safety needs are met, the third level of human needs is social needs which involve feelings of belonging and love. The need for love and belonging refers to human emotional needs, namely interpersonal relationships, relationships and having a sense of belonging in a group. Examples of belongingness needs include friendship, intimacy, trust, acceptance, receiving and giving affection and love. Love is a good relationship, so make love healthy for a positive experience. Relationships based on trust can form a positive identity in a person and will develop until they reach adulthood.

In general, love and youth are inseparable. It is a natural human nature that is gifted by Allah SWT. It is the responsibility of humans to appreciate the love that is bestowed on the true and satisfied path. As a teenager, add knowledge to manage the feelings of love that are present. The acceptance of this feeling of love will definitely yield positive results when applied with knowledge and religious boundaries.

Reference source :

1. Intan Mas Ayu Shahimi (2020, 11 Januari). Cinta monyet mainan emosi. Harian Metro Online. Bahan diakses pada 11 Januari 2020, daripada https://www.hmetro.com.my/WM/2020/01/534023/cinta-monyet-mainan-emosi
2. Saul M. (2023). Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory. https://simplypsychology.org/maslow.html

Date of Input: 30/03/2024 | Updated: 30/03/2024 | ayna