EXPLORING THE EXPERIENCED EFFECTS OF ADOLESCENT MOTHERHOOD ON THE BEARER’S SOCIAL-ECONOMIC STATUS IN MUTUNDA SUB-COUNTY, KIRYANDONGO DISTRICT, UGANDA.

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Background: Adolescent motherhood (AM) is a global public health concern due to its detrimental impact on mothers, children, and society as a whole. This study investigated the social and economic consequences of AM on young mothers in Mutunda Sub-County, Kiryandongo District, Uganda. Specifically, the research explored how AM affected their education, health, and access to resources.

Methodology: Founded on a phenomenological perspective, this qualitative investigation used in-depth interview method. 24 adolescent mothers and 18 key informants were interviewed. The data collected was analyzed and presented thematically.

Results: This Ugandan study found AM caused a cycle of disadvantage: 100% school dropout due to financial strain and stigma, leading to shattered career dreams. These young mothers also experienced poorer physical health and emotional distress, with limited access to resources like healthcare and nutritious food further impacting their well-being. These findings align with existing research on the social and economic hardships faced by adolescent mothers.

 Conclusion: AM led to school dropout, limited healthcare access, and low-paying jobs, highlighting the need for programs to support education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for these young mothers. This cycle of social and economic disadvantage can be broken with interventions that empower adolescent mothers to build a brighter future for themselves and their children.