Adolescent parenting: outcomes and maternal perceptions.

OBJECTIVE

To describe selected outcomes and maternal perceptions of adolescent parenting.

DESIGN

Qualitative and quantitative methods, interview, and two standardized instruments were combined in this follow-up study of adolescents who received perinatal services between 1985 and 1988.

SETTING

Data were collected in the mothers' homes.

PARTICIPANTS

Mothers who were randomly selected for an earlier chart outcome audit (N = 98) and could be located (n = 19).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Subsequent pregnancies; school completion; children's development, indicated by the Developmental Profile II (DPII); parental attitudes, indicated by the Adult-Adolescent Parenting Inventory (AAPI); and maternal perceptions.

RESULTS

Responses revealed irregular use of contraceptives as one reason for the initial pregnancy and for subsequent unplanned pregnancies. Sixteen mothers completed high school, and 18 intend to complete postsecondary programs. The DPII indicated age-appropriate development of the children. AAPI scores for 84% of the mothers indicated nonnurturing attitudes. Mothers described family support, motherhood, and their children.

CONCLUSIONS

Research is needed with larger samples and to test interventions to promote regular use of contraception. Findings support the need for research-based programs to educate and promote the development of adolescent mothers and their children.