The lived experience of decision making that leads to pregnancy in the female teenager

Abstract

The phenomenon of teenage pregnancy in the United States is increasing and can be a challenge to the parents, the infant, and to society. This study used a phenomenological research approach to describe the lived experience of the female teenager's decision making that leads to pregnancy. The research question was: What is the essential structure of the lived experience of the decision making that leads to pregnancy in the female teenager? The researcher interviewed four teenagers between the ages of 16 and 18, who were pregnant for the first time. Analysis of audio-taped and transcribed interviews resulted in significant statements. Using Colaizzi's method adapted by Haase, themes, theme clusters, theme categories, an exhaustive description, and an essential structure of the lived experience emerged. The theme categories derived from the data analysis were: Decision to Become Pregnant, I'm Pregnant, Teen Life, and Considering Motherhood. The essential structure indicated that the lived experience of decision making that leads to pregnancy in the female teenager was a passive process. Becoming pregnant was unplanned but had a marked effect on relationships and future life goals.