'Support me like a child, respect me like an adult': a qualitative study on pregnancy experiences of adolescents in Zambia.

ABSTRACT: Pregnant adolescents often face social, emotional and physical challenges, compounded by inadequate support. Drawing on a Straussian grounded theory approach, we explored the social processes and perspectives that influence adolescent pregnancy experiences in Zambia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with adolescents (n = 26), partners (n = 8), parents/legal guardians of adolescents (n = 8), healthcare workers (n = 6), and key stakeholders (n = 5). Data were subjected to open, axial and selective coding, and a core category 'Support me like a child, respect me like an adult', generated. Bronfenbrenner's socio-ecological framework was also used as a theoretical lens to aid understanding of the social interactions between three interlinked ca

SUBMITTER: Lavender T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12727515 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature