Black Teenage Pregnancy: An African Perspective

Black teenage pregnancy in South Africa and the rest of Africa is discussed. Problems of family disorganization are examined. An increasing number of, female-headed single parent families; out-of-wedlock children; unwanted and abandoned babies; street children; adolescents with sexuality transmitted disease and teenage pregnancies attest to this. Particular reference is made to a research study by Boult and Cunningham (1991) of Black Teenage Pregnancy in Port Elizabeth. The study demonstrates that teenage pregnancy is associated with disorganized family structure; disregard of traditional cultural norms; low education; lack of knowledge and use of contraception and, a correlation between age at onset of menarche and onset of sexual activity. It is associated with a negative response to the pregnancy from the teenager, her sexual partner and her family. There is a lack of realistic planning on her and her child's behalf. Recommendations to prevent further deterioration of quality of life for 'children having children' include gender-specific and age-related sex education, an upgrading of the socioeconomic environment and support systems; and more appropriate development policies.