Teamwork Asessment Research

To begin, if they are engaging in sexual activity, they may become pregnant and
may be forced to drop out of school. A 2022 article, with research conducted in Cameroon,
claims that 41.6% of the 18,791 single mothers studied discontinued school due to pregnancy
(Sobngwi-Tambekou et al.). In spite of various influences such as religion, race and
socio-economic status, there is a plethora of reasons as to why this happens. Primarily, the
physical implications of pregnancy, such as nausea, fatigue and back pain will impede her ability
to focus during classes and execute assignments. In addition, there is a wide range of expenses
regarding pregnancy and babies. Medical costs such as ultrasounds, treatment for symptoms and
delivery of the baby will take quite a toll on the family’s finances. This does not even include the
cost of raising a child over at least 18 years. If she has little to no financial resources, the mother
may be forced to take a job to care for herself and the baby. Also, society generally looks down
on unmarried pregnant women, even if they are in a committed relationship with the child’s
father. Even more so for pregnant teens and adolescents. The undeniable shame and social
ostracization to be experienced may cause the mother to avoid leaving home, and miss school as
a result. In all, the occurrence of teen pregnancy in low-income households is detrimental to the
academic development of teen girls.
Furthermore, lack of formal education results in low income, repeating the cycle of
poverty. Research conducted states “While it has long been recognized that the education of men
is important, it is becoming increasingly clear that when women are deprived of education,
everyone pays an enormous price.” (Christie et al.). Dropping out of school during the teenage
years means her highest qualification may only be a diploma. Sometimes, she may have no
qualifications. Despite hands-on experience being in demand, many employers are looking for
formal qualifications. Subsequent to this, the mother may be unable to find jobs with sufficient
pay or may be forced to work minimum wage. As a form of relief, she can apply for government
aid. However, in a case where she has multiple children, it will be difficult to make sufficient use
of the financial aid. Even if she has just one child, it might not be enough. To illustrate, poverty
during pregnancy can result in health complications in the child. In a situation such as this,
financial aid from the government may not cover all the medical expenses. Without sufficient
assistance, she might face difficulty meeting basic necessities such as clothes and food. In some
cases, when the child is older, the mother will take on two jobs, as they are now able to
somewhat take care of themselves. As expected, the mother unfortunately is so consumed with
work and taking care of her child, that she has no time or resources to pursue higher education.
What if the child begins to work when they become of age? Sometimes children in low-income
households work as a way to assist their parents. Working does not inherently mean their
educational advancement is over. Part-time jobs are a good way for teens and young adults to
offset the financial strain of the house without putting their professional development at risk.
However, many are forced to work full time immediately after graduating school. In this regard,
their lack of formal education will cause the cycle to repeat itself, therefore perpetuating
generational poverty.
Moreover, becoming a parent during adolescent years can take an immense toll on the
psychological health of the mother. An article from The Clay Center for Young Healthy Minds
mentions that pregnancy is kindred to being at higher risk for depression. It highlights that
adolescent mothers are more likely to experience depression during pregnancy when compared
to older mothers and non-pregnant women. A staggering 16%-44% for depression in pregnant
and post-partum teens was recorded in comparison to the estimated 10%-15% for older mothers
(Nonacs and Schlozman). While a wide array factors can be attributed to this disparity, one must
first analyze the causes of depression in pregnant and post-partum women to be able to
comprehend these numbers. To illustrate, hormonal imbalances, which are common during and
after pregnancy, can contribute to the development of depression in pregnant women and
mothers. Further, the stresses of life such as demands from work, or past traumas can increase
her likelihood of developing depression. Especially if she has endured miscarriages or major
health complications during previous pregnancies. Further, the physical strain a mother bares
during pregnancy is sure to deteriorate her mental health. Nausea, back aches and contractions
are just a mere few of the physical implications faced during pregnancy. Moreover, many
women’s appearances change during pregnancy. For example, having part of her face, or all of it,
swollen during most of the pregnancy or weight gain. Even though changes in physical
appearance may seem insignificant, it can make many of them feel insecure. Society also focuses
heavily on the appearance of women, enforcing somewhat unrealistic beauty standards and
expectations. It is important that women feel their best as they are in an extremely vulnerable
state. Now, place all of these effects onto a teen whose body and mind are not fully developed, is
yet to finish school and must rely on her parents. It is inevidtable that she will face higher levels
of depression, along with other psychological issues. The response from her parents will also
influence her journey through pregnancy and raising the child. For instance, if her parents do not
show enough support and compassion,

Teamwork Asessment Research

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Teamwork Asessment Research

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Teamwork Asessment Research

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

To begin, if they are engaging in sexual activity, they may become pregnant and

(Sobngwi-Tambekou et al.). In spite of various influences such as religion, race and

academic development of teen girls.

show enough support and compassion,

You might also like