Coping Strategies of Young Mothers of the University of Northern Philippines

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the coping strategies of young mothers and pregnant students. Specifically, it determined the respondents' immediate atitude towards pregnacy, the challenges confronting young mothers particularly teenage pregnancy, and the coping strategies to overcome the challenges. This study also tried
to identify the existing reproductive health services offered by the university to young mothers. The descriptive method of research was utlized to understand the issues confronting young mates both at personal and school level. This was conducted during SY2002-2003 in the University of Northern Philippines, Vigan City. There were 30 respondents who were interviewed and six participants in the one hour focus group discussion. Content analysis was used. Survey results were tailed and treated using frequency count, percentage and rank. The researchers found out that most of the respondents experienced unplanned or unintended pregnancy and had a feeling of ambivalence towards their condilon. The difficulties encountered were mainly financial and emotional in nature. It was also difficult for them to balance the demands of studies and motherhood. All respondents got support from concerned individuals especially their parents. They only suffered rejection at the start but were accepted later. They also found out that the university had no clear policy regarding the provision of reproductive health and guidance services that specifically cater to the needs of young married students. There was a lack of advocacy on reproductive health issues and concerns. Based on he findings of the study, the researchers recommend that more counseling services should be provided to pregnant students to help them overcome emotional crisis and at the same time assure them of social acceptance. A comprehensive program caterig to the reproductive health needs of adolescents should be initiated in the university. Moreover, the University Clinic should expand its services to include prenatal care and postnatal care,family planning, counseling and other reproductive health services.