The Experience of Pregnant Adolescents Being Cared for in a Group Home

Inherent in adolescent pregnancy and parenthood are problems related to mother/baby health, societal norms, and economic well-being. Adolescent parenting programs are available; no specific approach is most effective in improving maternal/child health and decreasing subsequent adolescent pregnancies. This study explored what it means to be a pregnant adolescent living in a group home in the United States. One-on-one interviews, using semistructured questions, were conducted with eight participants. Ages were 13–17 years. Three themes emerged: (a) the environment, (b) balancing adolescent expectations, and (c) defining motherhood. Nurses caring for pregnant adolescents are uniquely positioned to influence their development as mothers.