Exploring the Challenges of Adolescent Boys in Online Long-Distance Romantic Relationships

Recent advances in technology and online communications have had significant impacts on emotional relationships, leading to a noticeable increase in long-distance emotional relationships.The present research aims to investigate the challenges faced by adolescent boys in online emotional relationships.
This qualitative research is conducted with a phenomenological approach. The study
population consisted of adolescents aged 16 to 20 residing in Rafsanjan in the spring of 2023. The sample was selected using purposive sampling, with the main criterion being that adolescents have an emotional connection with someone living more than 100 kilometers away. Data collection continued until data saturation was achieved and was completed with 11 interviews. Data was collected through unstructured interviews and analyzed using the content analysis method..
After coding the data, the findings were categorized into 8 thematic codes and 3 main themes: "psychological challenges," "sociocultural challenges," and "challenges related to social networks."
Based on the research findings, adolescent boys in long-distance online emotional relationships face various problems and challenges. Understanding these challenges can assist us in better comprehending how to address them, formulate solutions based on their needs and experiences, and guide them toward healthy and deep emotional relationships.