Adults’ Perceptions on Adolescent Attitudes towards Pregnancy and Abortion in Maputo and Quelimane Cities, Mozambique: An Exploratory Qualitative Study

Mónica Frederico (), Carlos Arnaldo, Rehana Capurchande, Peter Decat and Kristien Michielsen
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Mónica Frederico: International Centre for Reproductive Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10 UZ, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
Carlos Arnaldo: Centro de Estudos Africanos, Eduardo Mondlane University, Department of Development and Gender Studies, Maputo P.O. Box 1993, Mozambique
Rehana Capurchande: Department of Sociology, Eduardo Mondlane University, Campus Universitário Principal, Maputo P.O. Box 257, Mozambique
Peter Decat: International Centre for Reproductive Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10 UZ, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
Kristien Michielsen: International Centre for Reproductive Health, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10 UZ, 9000 Ghent, Belgium

Social Sciences, 2022, vol. 12, issue 1, 1-17

Abstract: Background : In Mozambique, 76% of adolescents have been pregnant before the age of 20 years. Thus, this study explores adults’ perceptions on adolescent attitudes towards pregnancy and abortion in Maputo and Quelimane cities. Methods : A qualitative study was conducted in Maputo and Quelimane, with four focus group discussions. A cross-sectional household survey was used to select adult women participants. Data were analysed applying a thematic analysis approach. Results : Intrapersonal, interpersonal, cultural, and environmental factors influence pregnancy and abortion decision making among adolescents. Generational conflicts reduce the importance paid to traditional knowledge transfer, contraceptive beliefs, denial of paternity, lack of parental support, and procreation value were found to influence abortion decision making and early pregnancy among adolescents. Conclusions : There is a need to improve relationships between adults and adolescents to reduce girls’ vulnerability to early pregnancy, as well as empowering adolescents in order to negotiate safe sex, reducing unwanted pregnancy and induced abortion.

Keywords: pregnancy; abortion; decision making; law; adolescents; Maputo; Quelimane; Mozambique (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A B N P Y80 Z00 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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