Shelly Guni
Almost every Zimbabwean is familiar with the subject.
The parents from Zimbabwe, however, find this to be a worrying matter. The majority of teenagers at schools encounter different forms of peer pressure, which affect their lives and school progress.
Peer pressure is most intense during adolescence, as teenagers frequently seek advice and support from their friends. As CE Hendrick (2016) observed, girls who experience early pubertal timing are at an elevated risk for teenage childbearing.
This article aims to raise awareness about teenage pregnancies by examining the contributing factors and exploring potential solutions.
Factors Contributing to Teenage Pregnancies
Several factors contribute to teenage pregnancies and childbearing. Key among these are poor maternal education, being born to a teenage mother, and the absence of a father in the household.
Environmental conditions also play a significant role; for instance, low levels of parental monitoring, lower income, limited educational prospects, and community norms that accept early childbearing increase the risk of teenage pregnancies.
In my research, the following contributing factors were identified:
Poverty: The primary cause of teenage pregnancies.
Gender Inequalities: Unequal gender dynamics that pressure girls into early sexual activity.
Poor Access to Contraceptives: Limited availability and incorrect use of contraceptives among those who have access.
Gender-Based Violence: Abuse and coercion that lead to unintended pregnancies.
Lack of Parental Supervision: Insufficient monitoring and guidance from parents.
Lack of Positive Child Communication: Poor communication between parents and children.
Teenage girls are particularly vulnerable to peer pressure and materialistic desires, says social worker Linda Chigumba. “They often end up in relationships with older men who can meet these needs, but this comes at a significant cost.
“Older learners often influence younger ones in matters of dating, sexual behavior, and lifestyle choices. To fit in with modern trends, some teenagers may seek relationships with older men who can provide desired material goods such as clothes and smartphones. This often leads to unsafe sexual activities, resulting in unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases,” she said.
Consequences of Teenage Pregnancy
Teenage mothers face numerous challenges. Balancing education and childcare is difficult, often leading to psychological stress and school dropout. Similarly, young fathers may be forced to leave school to find work and support their child. This situation places a burden on the parents of teenage parents, who must care for both their child and grandchild, straining their finances.
“Teenage pregnancy drastically changes the life trajectory of young mothers and fathers,”** notes Dr. Tatenda Moyo, a child psychologist. “Many of them struggle to complete their education and face limited job opportunities.”
Teenage pregnancy not only affects the individuals involved but also impacts their social relationships. Upon returning to school, teenage mothers often face stigmatization from peers and even teachers, leading to further educational setbacks.
Addressing the Issue
Parental monitoring and positive child communication are essential in addressing teenage pregnancies. Schools should introduce awareness programs on peer pressure and sexual behavior to help prevent an increase in teenage pregnancies. Encouraging learners to focus on their studies and delay relationships until after completing their education can significantly reduce the incidence of teenage pregnancies.
“Education is the key to breaking the cycle of teenage pregnancy,” says educational consultant, Mr. Tawanda Nyathi. “By empowering young people with knowledge and skills, we can build a stronger, more accountable nation.”
Community norms and cultural practices that accept early childbearing must also be challenged and reformed. Communities need education on modern practices and the reasons behind them to foster a supportive environment for youth.
In conclusion, addressing the causes of teenage pregnancies in Zimbabwe requires a multifaceted approach involving education, parental involvement, and community support. By tackling these issues head-on, Zimbabwe can ensure a brighter future for its youth and the nation as a whole.