Exploratory analysis of factors associated with teens' repeated childbearing

This study was designed to explore the factors regarding unique determinants of repeat childbearing among teens. The influence that key people have on subsequent teen childbearing is examined. Data for this research were gathered in focus groups with teen mothers and parents of teen mothers who access the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in Georgia. Based on the results, repeated childbearing appears to occur within the context of poor parent-child relations, conflicting support for the roles teen mothers are expected to assume, limited social pressures for effective fathering, and limited access to social services for all family members. Pregnancy prevention efforts by agencies for teen mothers should coordinate services for the teen mother, her parent, and her partner.