Problem: Homeless families headed by young mothers are increasing. This preliminary study describes the characteristics of 17 homeless teenage mothers (HTM).
Methods: HTMs completed questionnaires researching depression, self-esteem, maternal competence, and sources of stress and support.
Findings: HTMs had positive maternal competence and self-esteem scores. When compared to housed mothers, HTMs were younger, had more depressive symptoms and negative life events, and fewer social supports.
Conclusions: HTMs represent a high-risk group with fewer available supports and many complex life stressors. School-based programs can benefit HTMs by offering support, helping them continue their education, and assisting with on-site school-based childcare. (Source: http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3892/is_200705/ai_n19433120)