The Psychological Effects of the Ecological Network on African American Adolescents’ Pregnancy Behavior
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Authors
Baumbach, Sarah
Issue Date
2008
Type
Presentation
Language
en_US
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
Research on the pregnancy tendencies and sexual
behaviors of African American female adolescents,
14-18 years of age reveals patterns and influences
that lead to these behaviors, and repeat pregnancies
within a year. African American female adolescents
are a part of a unique family structure and
community. The people within this structure include
immediate and extended family members, peers, and
community, all of which play a unique role in her
behavior and choices. Each relationship with the
people in their lives are intertwined and effect each
other, allowing substantial influence on the
adolescent’s decisions. The examination of the
complex and dynamic system of relationships
involved in the lives of these adolescents is essential in
prevention of continuing pregnancy before financial
and emotional preparation. The proposed study will
include 100 African American adolescents, ages 14-
18, living in a lower socioeconomic neighborhood.
Each participant will begin the study immediately
after giving birth to their first child. Participation will
include a total of four in depth interviews, as well as
further surveys and follow up questionnaires. After
analysis of results thus far in the study, it appears that
the context of neighborhood and social norms of
peers plays a large role in adolescents own
pregnancy behaviors. Parental support,
psychological health, and access to health and
educational resources are all essential in preventing
and understanding adolescent pregnancy among
African American adolescents living in lower
socioeconomic neighborhoods.
Description
1 broadside : ill.
Citation
Publisher
Kalamazoo, Mich. : Kalamazoo College.
License
U.S. copyright laws protect this material. Commercial use or distribution of this material is not permitted without prior written permission of the copyright holder.