Social support, relationship quality, and well-being among pregnant adolescents

Abstract

This study examined the role of social support and relationship quality on the well-being of pregnant adolescents. Sixty-seven Black and 43 White single pregnant teens participated in the study. The reciprocal exchange of support between parents and teens was correlated with increased mastery and life satisfaction and decreased depression and anxiety. However, the reciprocal exchange of support with friends did not correlate with well-being. A high quality relationship with a significant other was associated with increased self-esteem among pregnant teens dating the father of their child. This study extends the adolescent pregnancy literature by considering the reciprocal exchange of support and relationship quality with the partner.