The influence of cultural factors, on teenage pregnancies among public primary school pupils in Mpeefu Sub County

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of cultural factors, on teenage pregnancies among public primary school pupils in Mpeefu Sub County. The study was hinged on two theories; Bronfrenbergs Ecological Development theory and Albert Banduras Social Learning Theory. The study employed descriptive survey research design. Target population form three and four pupils’ 5,496, teachers 300 and 9 head teachers the sample size was of 359 (n=359) form three and four pupils and 90 (n=90) teachers, from 20 public primary schools and 9 Head teachers that were selected to participate in the study. Stratified sampling and random sampling were used to pick the respondents. Questionnaires were used to collect data from teachers and the pupils while an interview guide was used to collect data from head teachers in the Sub County. The study established that most parent /parents taking their children to the school are into business. The study also deduced that electronic media influences teenagers to have sex at an early age and those pupils are pressurized to have sex by their friends. This study recommends that efforts on educating people regarding teenage pregnancy should be focused on areas experiencing high levels of poverty. The government with the help of NGOs should also ensure that parents are well educated on the how and when to talk about sex with their children. The study established that parental communication on peer group pressure could reduce chances of teenage pregnancy.