Experiences, needs and coping strategies of pregnant and parenting teenagers: A perspective from Lusaka and North Western Provinces of Zambia
Date
2017-12
Authors
Mukwato, Patricia Katowa
Maimbolwa, Margaret.C.
Mwape, Lonia
Muleya, Mutinta Crecious
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Journal of Research in Nursing and Midwifery
Abstract
Pregnant and parenting teenagers have needs that are unique to the developmental stages of
adolescence in addition to the needs common to all pregnant women. The study investigated the
experiences, needs and coping strategies of pregnant and parenting teenagers. The study utilized a
phenomenological approach, where in-depth interviews with pregnant and parenting teenagers were
conducted to get an insight into their experiences, needs and coping strategies. Participants were
purposively selected. A sample size was 27 participants which was determined using data saturation
principle. Three themes emerged on the experiences of teenage pregnancy and parenting including,
abandonment and rejection, loss of parental support and burden of being pregnant or being a parent,
while three broad needs were identified; information about HIV status, physical materials for the unborn
or new born baby and mother, and the desire to go back to school for those who fall pregnant while
schooling. Both adaptive and maladaptive strategies were identified as a means for coping including,
avoidance of negativity, support from parents, relatives and partner, repentance and dependence on
God, focusing on own and the child’s future, and denial of pregnancy or motherhood. It was concluded
that pregnant and parenting teenagers undergo diverse negative experiences, while negotiating the
transition from teenage hood to adulthood and motherhood amidst unmet teenage and pregnancy
related needs. As a means to cope with the negativity and live within circumstances of unmet teenage
and motherhood needs, coping strategies are required.
Keywords: Experiences, Needs, Coping Strategies, Teenage Pregnancy, Parenting.
Description
Journal article
Keywords
Teenage pregnancy--Zambia