Perceptions of male teenagers towards teen fatherhood in Alxexandra Township, Eastern Cape Province

Abstract

Background: Teenage parenthood is gaining popularity globally, raising child welfare concerns and other issues among diverse stakeholders. Male teenagers, for instance, have different ideas regarding being teenage fathers. Purpose: This study aimed to explore and describe the perceptions of male teenagers toward teenage fatherconcerns about child welfare hood in Alexandria Township, Eastern Cape Province. Methodology: A qualitative explorative design was used. Purposive quota sampling was employed to select 25 participants from a population of teenage male learners in schools in Alexandria Township, Eastern Cape Province. Unstructured interviews, supported by probing questions, were used to gather comprehensive data on male teenagers' perceptions. Pre-testing was done before data collection to assess the feasibility of the interview sessions, the quality of the interview questions, and their ability to answer the research questions. The collected data were analysed using Tesch’s open coding approach, with findings presented as themes. Trustworthiness was ensured through dependability, confirmability, credibility, prolonged engagement, and referral adequacy. Ethical considerations of confidentiality, non-maleficence, voluntary participation, and privacy were upheld throughout the study. Results: The study identified four overarching themes regarding male teenagers' perceptions of teenage fatherhood: positive perceptions, negative perceptions, perceptions of the consequences of teenage fatherhood, and perceptions of factors contributing to teenage fatherhood. Recommendations: The study recommends strengthening sex education, advancing access to reproductive health services, and supporting teenage fathers. Schools, healthcare providers, and communities should use inclusive and sensitive approaches. Parents and community leaders also have an important role in guiding young men. More male involvement in health services, community awareness campaigns, and economic support is essential to changing perceptions, reducing school dropout rates, and improving outcomes for teenage fathers and their children.