Significance of parent-child relationship in enhancing educational outcomes among teenage mothers

Teenage mothering poses several challenges to the young mother and the family to cope with new mothering and learning demands. The chapter aims to describe the impact of negative parental relationships on learning among teenage mothers. To enhance constructive inclusion of the voices of teenage mothers, the study used action research through a community engagement approach. The study was guided by Bricolage's theoretical framework. Data was generated through multiple methods such as face-to-face individual interviews, focused group discussions, and reflections. Twelve Black teenage mothers from a rural village participated in the study. Data were analysed using critical discourse analysis and thematic analysis. Findings were that teenage mothers felt marginalized and isolated from other family members which led to unhealthy choices like self-isolation, family exclusions, and poor learning interest. Through action research, relationship healing occurred resulting in teenage mothers gaining self-awareness, and goal-setting.