Social Representations of School Adolescents about Responsible Fatherhood and Motherhood

Abstract

Objective: To understand the social representations of school-aged adolescents regarding responsible parenthood and motherhood. Methodology: This is a qualitative and exploratory study conducted with 23 school-aged adolescents, between 14 and 19 years old, from a Federal Institute of Education in Brazil. Data collection was carried out using a semi-structured interview guide, applied between September and December 2022. The thematic content analysis technique proposed by Bardin was used for data analysis. Results: Social representations of responsible parenthood/motherhood in adolescence revealed negative reactions and feelings, such as anxiety, fear, insecurity, and unpreparedness, as this phenomenon requires adaptation and sacrifice. Thus, the study enables collaboration between health professionals, schools, and families to support adolescents in preventing pregnancy, facing challenges, and opting for conscious and safe parenthood/motherhood. Conclusions: It is crucial to foster collaboration between health professionals and schools to provide spaces for support, recognition, and listening during this phase, in addition to offering care that promotes the full development of school-aged adolescents.