Perceptions of rural teenagers on teenage pregnancy

Abstract

It is important to seek an understanding of teenagers’ perceptions regarding teenage pregnancy. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the perceptions of teenagers in Bushbuckridge district in the Limpopo Province, South Africa, towards teenage pregnancy. An explorative qualitative research design was used with convenience sampling to select participants. Thirty-two teenagers participated; 10 boys and 22 girls. Face-to-face interviews were conducted to collect data. Tesch’s method of data analysis was used. Three main categories emerged from the analyses of the interviews: (1) teenagers’ attitudes and perceptions of teenage pregnancy, (2) teenagers’ level of knowledge of contraception, and also (3) their reasons for becoming pregnant. Teenage pregnancy poses significant social and health problems in the Bushbuckridge district and has implications for all health care professionals. Given the complexity of this problem, health care professionals working with this group should develop a wide range of practical and interpersonal skills.