Pregnancy and parenthood among young people in and leaving care: what are the influencing factors, and what makes a difference in providing support?

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articleResearchpeer-review

Previous research has shown increased vulnerability to teenage parenthood for young people with experience of local authority care. This study explored factors contributing to early pregnancy and parenthood among young people in and leaving care; the types of support available; and the extent to which services are perceived as accessible. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 63 young people. The study findings suggest that young people's experiences both prior to, and during care, influence their decisions in relation to pregnancy and impact on how they view and engage with services. The implications of these findings are discussed in the light of recent changes in legislation and services throughout England.

Original languageEnglish
JournalJournal of Adolescence
Volume29
Issue number3
Pages (from-to)437-451
Number of pages15
ISSN0140-1971
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jun 2006

    Research areas

  • Care leavers, Looked after young people, Parenthood, Teenage pregnancy

ID: 202860916