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| Adolescent Parenting |
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| Having children during adolescence has significant consequences in terms of health, social and economic outcomes for the teenage mother and child, their families, as well as social implications in terms of welfare services and resources (Lindsay Harrison & Dickinson, 1999). Some of the risk factors associated with adolescent parenting, include a higher risk of poverty because of limited access to resources and employment opportunities due to their disadvantaged socio-economic status, low academic achievement, and health risks (Corcoran, 1998).
David Elkind's concept of 'the adultified child' refers to today's adolescents as children 'expected to house adult minds in young bodies' (Milne - Home 1996, cited in Lindsay et al, 1999). This relates to Erikson's developmental theory and identity formation during adolescence. By assuming parental status and responsibilities, adolescents are often prematurely pressured by social forces into identity foreclosure,an adult stage of cognitive development which they are not ready for (Lindsay et al, 1997). Therefore the young parent and child are vulnerable to the demands and pressures associated with parenting. They are also susceptible to effects of environmental stresses which contribute to their parenting and coping ability, at a time when their own personal development and resources are lacking or in the process of developing (Lindsay et al, 1997). Therefore supportive social relationships play a vital role in reducing stresses that contribute to the psychological well-being of the teenage mother (Lindsay et al 1999, p 33). For example emotional and practical demands of parenting, can be accentuated through conflict in relationships with partners or family members. These contributing sources of stress were identified by adolescent mothers in a study conducted to identify psychosocial factors that affected adolescent parenting. Some of the mothers identified their relationship with the child's father as the main source of stress in their lives (Lindsay et al, 1999 p37).
To reduce psychological stresses associated with parenting pressures and demands Linday et al (1997) recommend a shared approach to parenting. As well as addressing other sources of stress, such as affordable housing and financial support. Influencing factors in terms of parenting and coping ability were attributed to social supports available for the mother. The mothers who coped well had a strong network of support from their family and partner. Therefore they were able to resume a more age appropriate lifestyle, and continue their education (Lindsay et al, 1999 p33).
The main sources of strength which increased the mother's ability to cope withparenting demands were attributed to 'intrapersonal, interpersonal and structural factors'. That is a supportive social environment, not being socially isolated, having access to concrete and task centred support. The extent and quality of support appeared to determine variations in individual stress levels. According to Linday et al (1999), the study highlighted specific needs of teenage mothers. These included improving access to supportive community based services, and addressing structural barriers such as access to financial support, transport and child care. The study also identified a need to establish ongoing supportive services that complemented existing services provided by antenatal clinics during the first year of parenting. |
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