The relationship of partner support to outcomes for teenage mothers and their children: a review.

ABSTRACT

PIP: Each year in the US, 11% of all young women aged 15-19 years become pregnant. 50% of these women carry their pregnancy to term, becoming teenage mothers. Adolescent childbearing has serious ramifications for the teenager and her child. Supportive social relationships can, however, help young women to cope with the stresses of teenage motherhood. The authors review the literature on the relationship of partner support to outcomes for teenage mothers and their children. Both adults and adolescents who father children with female adolescents are considered. Focus is given upon the relationship between partner support and maternal educational and economic outcomes, as well as psychological well-being. The paper also examines the general association between partner support and child development. Partner support is viewed within the context of the teenager's family system, providing a framework for assessing key features of support for teen mothers. Suggestions for future research are offered.