| Summary: | 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. === Thesis (M.Ed.)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 1997.
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