Psychological Effects of Teenage Pregnancy among Young Mothers in Rescue Centers: A Case Study of Wings of Compassion Home in Kiambu, Kenya

Abstract

This study examined the psychological effects of teenage pregnancy on young mothers residing at Wings of Compassion Home in Kiambu, Kenya, with a focus on depression, anxiety and stress, coping strategies, and psychosocial support services. Guided by Erikson’s Psychosocial Development Theory, Lazarus and Folkman’s Transactional Model of Stress and Coping, and Social Support Theory, the research sought to establish the extent of psychological distress among adolescent mothers, identify coping strategies employed, and evaluate the effectiveness of institutional support in mitigating adverse mental health outcomes. A mixed-method design was employed, involving both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The target population comprised 90 young mothers living in the rescue centre, with data collected through structured questionnaires, standardized psychological assessment tools. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis, while qualitative insights were thematically analyzed to enrich interpretation of findings. The results revealed high levels of depression, anxiety and stress among the participants, with approximately 40% experiencing moderate to severe symptoms. Coping strategies were diverse, ranging from adaptive mechanisms such as peer support and vocational training to maladaptive responses including social withdrawal. The study further established that structured psychosocial support services particularly counseling, peer group therapy, and vocational training significantly reduced psychological distress and enhanced resilience among the young mothers. These findings underscore the urgent need for integrated psychosocial interventions that combine emotional, social, and economic support to address the complex psychological realities of adolescent mothers in rescue centers. The study concludes that strengthening institutional support structures, embedding culturally sensitive counseling programs, and expanding community reintegration services are essential to promoting the psychological well-being of young mothers.