This paper, written by Rachel Eni (University of ManitobaFollow) andWanda Phillips-Beck , summarizes a study that explored perspectives of Manitoba First Nation women on teenage pregnancy and parenthood in Canada. Data was derived through a qualitative methodology focusing on a life storytelling approach within a culturally informed framework and setting. The two main objectives of the study were to: (a) elucidate community perspectives on teenage pregnancy and parenting, and (b) understand their psychological, cultural, and socioeconomic causes and implications. The study was designed in consultation with staff and participants of the Manitoba First Nation Strengthening Families Maternal Child Health Program (SF-MCH). Through the storytelling technique, the women were able to practice or “work out” the unfolding of their personal relationships, past and present. Themes arose from the data that shed light upon women’s personal relationship experiences, meanings they ascribe to them, values, and aspirations for the future. The study included a participant engagement in policy development activity that had the women consider types of policies and programs to better support youth in First Nation communities.
This paper looks at some of the factors that come into play when a young women gets pregnant. It looks at the journey that some of these women go through and some of the positive and negative developments that arise.
A common value was the perception of the child’s rightful place is at the centre of the family and community. Children were seen to provide the family and community with meaning, purpose, goals, and destiny.(pg 8)
You can find the entire paper freely accessible through the International Indigenous Policy Journal HERE