CHILD-DEVELOPMENT KNOWLEDGE, CHILD-REARING ATTITUDES, AND SOCIAL SUPPORT AMONG FIRST-TIME AND 2ND-TIME ADOLESCENT MOTHERS

This paper compares the parenting characteristics of first-and second-time adolescent mothers. Using a case control design, immediately alter delivery and at two months postpartum we administered a pretested questionnaire to 51 second-time adolescent mothers, 47 first-time adolescent mothers, and 25 second-time adult mothers. The questionnaire measured the subject's social support system, contraceptive use, and education level. Scales measuring stressful life events, knowledge of child development, and childrearing attitudes were included. The adolescent groups were similar except that significantly more second-time adolescent mothers dropped out of school (p ≤ 0.05). Greater maternal education and higher infant five-minute Apgar scores were associated with less negative childrearing attitudes immediately after the birth (p ≤ 0.05). At two months postpartum, the age of the father and the time he spent with the child were associated with positive childrearing attitudes (p ≤ 0.05). Increased paternal involvement and completion of high school may enhance adolescent attitudes toward childrearing and improve mother-child relations. © 1990.