Succumbing to the Hardship of Solo Teenage Motherhood: A Narratology Research

Abstract

Solo teenage motherhood remains a significant global concern, posing substantial social, economic, and emotional challenges for young mothers. This phenomenon is closely linked to increased child mortality risks, educational setbacks, and economic instability. Despite these hardships, solo teenage mothers demonstrate remarkable resilience and resourcefulness in navigating their circumstances. This study aims to explore the lived experiences of solo teenage mothers, highlighting their challenges, coping mechanisms, and insights.Anchored in Sandra Harding's Feminist Standpoint Theory (1983), this research adopts a feminist lens that emphasizes the value of knowledge derived from marginalized groups, particularly women. Utilizing a qualitative narratological approach, an in-depth interview was conducted with a solo teenage mother to capture her unique experiences and struggles. The study identified nine key themes that emerged from the participant's narrative: Doubled Roles as Mother and Father, Societal Judgments, Financial Instability, Faith and Prayers, Engagement in Farming, Child as a Source of Strength, Regrets in Retrospect, Challenges in Child Rearing, and Weighing the Consequences of Decisions. These themes illustrate the complex realities of solo teenage motherhood, revealing both the hardships faced and the inner strength developed through these experiences. The findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive support systems that address these young mothers' social, economic, and emotional challenges. By amplifying the voices of solo teenage mothers, this study aims to inform policymakers, educators, and social workers in developing targeted interventions that promote the well-being and empowerment of young mothers. Emphasizing empathy and inclusion, this research advocates for more compassionate societal attitudes toward solo teenage mothers and their children.