The Psychosocial Support offered to Pregnant Teenage Girls and Teenage Mothers in Bungoma County, 2019-2021

Abstract

This research endeavored to assess the psychosocial support extended to pregnant teenage girls and teenage mothers in Bungoma County during the period spanning 2019 to 2021. Recognizing the distinctive challenges faced by this demographic, the study employed a mixed-methods approach to investigate the nature, availability, and efficacy of psychosocial support systems tailored to their specific needs. Quantitative data was gathered through structured surveys, focusing on demographic information, the types of psychosocial support received, and the perceived effectiveness of these interventions. Complementary qualitative data was derived from in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, providing a deeper understanding of the emotional, social, and psychological dimensions of the support offered. Purposive and stratified random sampling techniques were used in the study. The sample size of the study was 277 respondents from a total of 901 target population. A total of 216 dull filled and cleaned questionnaires for pregnant or teenage mothers were used for reporting as response return. There was also a total of 44 questionnaires for school principals. The study found that pregnant teenage girls and teenage mothers in Bungoma County encounter varied psychosocial challenges, including societal stigmatization, isolation, and emotional distress. Additionally, the study majorly found that most of the school support that adolescent mothers received revolved around guiding and counseling, encouragement, spiritual and love, which indicate psychological support. Keywords: psychosocial support, teenage girls, teenage mothers and Support