Intersecting stigmas place young mothers at risk of abuse and ongoing family violence

Evidence suggests that stigma is a pervasive aspect of the social climate surrounding teenage motherhood. Domestic and family violence disproportionately can be experienced by teenage girls, and teen mothers may experience unique forms of stigma and violence. This article presents findings from a recent PhD study that explored the experiences and reflections of former teenage mothers regarding how they navigated their lives from adolescent mothering across subsequent life stages while facing distinct challenges. In-depth qualitative interviews were undertaken with 22 women who became mothers during their teenage years and whose oldest child had reached adulthood. Data were analysed through a constructivist grounded theory approach that integrated a feminist standpoint lens. Many participants reflected on stigma experienced as teenage mothers, including intersecting stigmas of teenage motherhood and single motherhood and reported pressures to enter into, or to remain in, unhealthy or abusive relationships. Findings identify ways in which these dynamics influenced participants’ decision-making and life experiences over time. Results from this study highlight how intersecting, multiple stigmas can erode autonomy and self-esteem and compound risks of exposure to violence for teenage mothers during and beyond adolescence.

Journal of Gender-Based Violence

Journal of Gender-Based Violence

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2398-6816

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18