Teenage pregnancy : psychosocial and educational implications.

Abstract

The present study explored the psychosocial and educational implications of teenage pregnancy for a group of school going mothers. A questionnaire was administered to 20 teenage mothers who are school going. These mothers attended a traditionally African school and are in grade 12. Issues covered by the questionnaire were subjects' prior exposure to sexuality education, attitudes towards such education in schools, the role played by their parents in imparting sexuality education to them, social-emotional-health and educational risk factors of teenage mothers. Possible support structures were also explored. A high percentage (85%) of the sample did not receive sexuality education from their parents. The main source of sexuality education was their peer group. All of the sample experienced socio-psychological risk factors such as shock, anxiety, frustration, loneliness, depression and guilt. These were experienced both during and after their pregnancy. · Results indicated that the subjects' prior exposure to sexuality education was inadequate They also experienced a lack of social and psychological support. The attitude of subjects was that they favour the introduction of sexuality education into traditionally African schools In conclusion, it is hoped that the study will assist educators to gain insight into the needs and problems of teenage mothers. There is an urgent need of guidance and support for teenagers in traditionally African Schools.