Still a Teen, Already a Mother: Understanding the Teen Motherhood Phenomenon Through Photovoice

Abstract

Teen motherhood is a growing phenomenon in the Philippines. Among Filipino women ages 15-19, one in 10 is already a mother or pregnant with her first child (Philippine Statistics Authority, 2014). Using participatory action research and photovoice, this study aimed to give voice to teen mothers so that stories of their past and present struggles, and their hopes for the future for themselves and for their child or children could be heard. Through the nominations of the rural health unit officer of selected barangays of one town in North Philippines, the research team contacted possible participants. Four participants continued diligent involvement throughout the photovoice process. The themes that emerged from the data included regret and confusion, seeds of hope, sacrifice and hard work, joys of motherhood, and dreams for the future. The data revealed that teen mothers had the ability to rise above their past and present struggles and nurture their dreams for a bright future.