NCJ Number
207748
Journal
Journal for Juvenile Justice and Detention Services Volume: 18 Issue: 1-2 Dated: Fall 2003 Pages: 93-111
Date Published
2003
Length
19 pages
Annotation
This study explored the way in which teenage fathers viewed family roles.
Abstract
Although there is a broad interest in the problem of teenage pregnancy in the United States, much of this research has failed to focus on teenage fathers. The current study focused on three main research questions: (1) how did the sample of teenage fathers become dads; (2) how did they perceive themselves as fathers; and (3) what, in their opinion, would make them good parents in the future? Three methods were used to collect data from delinquent teenage dads held in detention: observations of group discussions in the Parenting Alternative Classes held at the regional detention center; interviews with 20 delinquents who identified themselves as fathers; and essay questionnaires completed by delinquent fathers in the Parenting Alternative Classes. The findings indicated significant differences between male and female reactions to lessons about parenting skills, with the males tending to view parenting problems as the responsibility of the mother. The essay responses indicated that the females had a better understanding of being a parent, while the males’ responses were less realistic. The interviews revealed that most of the teenage fathers thought that resources should be focused on helping teenage parents after the baby is born; only three of the dads thought resources should be focused on pregnancy prevention. The findings indicate that a multi-faceted approach is best suited to addressing teenage pregnancy; prevention efforts should be coupled with a realization that teenagers are likely to become sexually active. References