Peer Influence, Self-Esteem and Parental Occupation as Determinants of Attitude to Teenage Pregnancy Among Secondary School Students in Lagos State.

Abstract

Teenage pregnancy remains a significant public health concern, particularly in developing regions such as Nigeria, where it is associated with adverse health, educational and socioeconomic outcomes. Adolescent attitude towards the teenage pregnancy plays a crucial role in shaping their reproductive behaviors and choices. This study examines peer influence, self-esteem and parental occupation as key determinants of attitude towards teenage pregnancy among 250 secondary school adolescent (ages 13-16) in Lagos State, Nigeria. Hinged on the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and the Precaution Adoption Process Model (PAPM). A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted using structured questionnaire measuring peer influence, self-esteem, parental occupation and attitude towards teenage pregnancy (assessed on a 4-point Likert scale). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA and multiple regression analysis. The results showed that adolescents with high peer influence had more permissive attitudes towards teenage pregnancy compared to those with low peer influence (F = 4.21, p = 0.018), while those with low self-esteem were more likely to view teenage pregnancy as acceptable, compared to those with high self-esteem (F = 6.02, p = 0.011). Furthermore, the findings revealed that parental occupation significantly influenced attitudes, since adolescents from low-income families were more likely to hold positive attitudes towards teenage pregnancy compared to those from high income families (F = 5.31, p = 0.023). The findings suggest that social and psychological factors significantly shape adolescents’ perception of teenage pregnancy. Interventions should focus on reducing peer driven acceptance of teenage pregnancy, promoting self-esteem development and addressing socioeconomic disparities to reshape adolescents’ attitude to teenage pregnancy. This study contributes to adolescent health research by highlighting the importance of social norms and self-perception in shaping sexual attitudes and behaviours. This study recommends peer-led education programmes, self-esteem development intervention, and targeted socioeconomic support programmes to mitigate teenage pregnancy risks.