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PERCEPTION OF MOTHERHOOD IN ADOLESCENCE

Z. Skodova, N. Rufusova, L. Banovcinova

Abstract

Aim: Purpose of this study was to explore the perception of motherhood among adolescent girls in Slovakia. Differences in perception of motherhood according to demographic factors and reproductive plans were examined as well. Method: Data collection was carried out at four high schools in central Slovakia; 200 female students were included in the research sample (age 18.35В±0.48). The semantic differential was used in order to measure the perception of motherhood, containing 10 rating scales (7- point Likert scales were used). Descriptive statistics and StudentВ’s t-test for independent samples were employed. Results: Majority of adolescent girls in a research sample reported they plan to have children (78.5%), and age of 25-30 was perceived as optimal for having children (52.5 %). In semantic differential rating scales, motherhood in our research sample was perceived mostly as necessary (2.39В±1.37), restrictive (4.0В±1.68), pleasant (2.39В±1.42), valuable (1.98В±1.31), exceptional (1.95В±1.59), merry (2.12В±1.32), optional (2.26В±1.89), happy (1.8В±1.18), responsible (1.39В±0.92), and expensive (5.49В±1.37. Statistically significant differences in the several rating scales indicating a perception of motherhood were found according to reproductive plans and behavior (p?0.005). Less positive attitudes were showed among participants had no plans for having children/ or were not sure, who perceived older age as optimal for having children, and who were not sexually active. On the other hand, motherhood perceptions did not differ significantly according to sociodemographic factors, such as parentВ’s educational level, family background, economic situation, except for religiosity. Conclusion: Research in the area of attitudes towards motherhood becomes important, especially in the context of the current trend of shifting births to an older age. Some components of the attitudes toward motherhood are beginning to shape during the adolescence and later may significantly influence reproductive behavior. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to factors influencing attitudes toward motherhood in adolescence and early youth.

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DOI resolver: doi.org/10.5593/SWS.ISCSS.2019.3/S12.079

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