6 research outputs found
A Content Analysis of Teen Parenthood in âTeen Momâ Reality Programming
A content analysis of the MTV shows 16 and Pregnant (n = 59), Teen Mom (n = 20), and Teen Mom 2 (n = 20) was conducted to determine whether these programs accurately portray teen pregnancy. The results revealed that teen mothers on 16 and Pregnant were younger, more often White, and had more healthy babies as compared to national averages. The babies' fathers were more involved in the daily care of their child as compared to reality. Medical insurance or receipt of government assistance was almost never discussed. Teen mothers in the Teen Mom shows were significantly more likely to achieve a high school diploma as compared to reality. Finally, mothers on Teen Mom and Teen Mom 2 were significantly less likely to voice concern about finances and had more active social lives than mothers on 16 and Pregnant. Using social learning theory as a theoretical framework, we argue that these shows provide mixed messages to young audiences about teen pregnancy and parenthood
âSex Is a sinâ: Afro-Caribbean Parent and Teen Perspectives on Sex Conversations
This study characterized (a) mothersâ childhood and teenage experiences with sex conversations and (b) familiesâ perceptions of current parentâchild sex conversations within two underserved Afro-Caribbean communities in the U.S. Fourteen dyads comprised of Haitian and Jamaican mothers and teens (aged 14â18) living in Miami, Florida, completed semi-structured interviews sharing their experiences with sex conversations. Researchers analyzed data using thematic content analysis. Mothersâ mean age was 41.85âyears, (SDâ=â5.50) and teensâ mean age was 16.35âyears, (SDâ=â1.31). Most mothers reported forbidden or little childhood experiences with parentâchild sex conversations. They affected their sexual attitudes, behaviors, and ability to discuss sex with their children. Although some mothers benefited from educational and skill development others shared fear-based messages with their children that some teens believed adversely affected the motherâchild relationship quality. Culturally appropriate, skill-based approaches are necessary to improve familiesâ communication self-efficacy for healthy sex conversations to occur in Afro-Caribbean families