Supporting Young Parents: Pregnancy and Parenthood among Young People from Care

Abstract

Supporting Young Parents" explores early pregnancy and parenthood from the perspectives of young men and women in and leaving care. Most discussion about teenage pregnancy and parenthood focuses on the negative consequences for teenagers and their children. Yet, for some young people, particularly those who have been disadvantaged in life, early parenthood may offer the security of a family life, a sense of stability and an opportunity to build emotional attachments. This book draws on authoritative research into the reasons for and experiences of pregnancy and parenthood among young people from local authority care. It questions the assumptions that early parenthood always limits young people's choices and opportunities and examines the types of support most likely to enable successful parenting. This book will be essential reading for community nurses, health visitors, social workers, academics and students working in the fields of health, education and social care.