Milan Stephanie, Ickovics Jeannette R, Kershaw Trace, Lewis Jessica, Meade Christina, Ethier Kathleen
Department of Epidemiology and Public Health and Center for Interdisciplinary Research on AIDS, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
J Consult Clin Psychol. 2004 Apr;72(2):328-40. doi: 10.1037/0022-006X.72.2.328.
This study examines trajectories and correlates of emotional distress symptoms in pregnant adolescents (n = 203) and nulliparous adolescents (n = 188) from economically disadvantaged communities over an 18-month period. For both groups, the prevalence of significant emotional distress exceeded expectation based on adolescent norms; however, the severity of symptoms did not differ between the 2 groups. Results from growth curve modeling revealed a significant decline in symptoms during the study period for both groups, but pregnant adolescents experienced a different pattern of decline. Also, certain interpersonal factors (e.g., history of physical maltreatment, partner support) appeared to play a more important role in the emotional well-being of pregnant and parenting adolescents relative to nulliparous adolescents. Implications for early identification and intervention are discussed.
