Family Social Support and Prenatal Care Among Unmarried African American Teenage Primiparas

Abstract

This study determined the relation of family social support and the receipt of adequate prenatal care among 25 unmarried African American teenage primiparas residing in the home. The study also investigated the strength of the family social support system compared to nonfamily support systems. Using the Personal Resource Questionnaire, Part II to measure social support, participants were provided the questionnaire 1 to 2 days after birth, but immediately prior to leaving the hospital. Results of the study determined no significant difference in social support scores among those women who received either adequate or inadequate prenatal care, although the 17- to 18-year-old age group had higher support scores than the 15- to 16-year-old age group. However, findings from the study indicated that family social support between both groups was significantly greater than nonfamily support systems. Thus, interventions by community health nurses to involve family members in all aspects of birthing and parenting can be essential in promoting positive health outcomes.