From adolescence to parenthood: Risk behaviors, challenges, ways of coping, and developmental outcomes among adolescent fathers in Metro Manila

• Main Authors: Acuesta, Gabriel Anthony C., Magno, Maria Rossana Katrina H., Zuniga, Irene Cecilia C.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2013
• Subjects: Teenage pregnancy; Teenage parents; Teenage fathers; Psychology
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_bachelors/11136
• Institution: De La Salle University

Many researchers have focused on female teenage pregnancy leaving behind the experiences of adolescent fathers. Although in pregnancy, fathers are not that at risk compared to mothers, there are also challenges as part of their experience and transition to fatherhood. The purpose of this study is to understand the different experiences of adolescents fathers in Metro Manila. Respondents of this study were 10 adolescent fathers who maintain a close relationship with their child. Interviews were conducted in order to get data regarding the different engagements of adolescent fathers in risk behaviors, challenges in their transition to fatherhood, coping strategies, and the overall outcome of the experience of fatherhood. Results of the study supported most of the literature gathered. Adolescent fathers mostly engage in dangerous behaviors such as partying, drinking, and using illegal substances. Parenting,which includes becoming a father, providing financially, and balancing time was seen as a challenge for them. They were able to cope effectively because of their supportive family members. Fatherhood had led these adolescent fathers to become more family oriented and have a better relationship with their partners. In line with previous researches, this study proves that adolescent fathers go through a lot of changes and challenges as they enter fatherhood. But despite these changes and challenges, they all experienced fatherhood in a good way. Fatherhood helped them maintain good relationships with their family and partner, and be more selfless.