Civil Status, Single: The Emotional Experiences and Transformations of Single Teenage Filipino Mothers Across Generations in Their Transition to Adulthood

Proponent/s Name/s (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Gabrielle B. Lumongsod, De La Salle University, ManilaFollow
Ana Sofia V. Collado, De La Salle University, ManilaFollow
Ramona Liz P. Motos, De La Salle University, ManilaFollow
Maria Ysabel A. Ronquillo, De La Salle University, ManilaFollow

Document Types

Paper Presentation

School Name

De La Salle University, Manila

Track or Strand

Humanities and Social Science (HUMSS)

Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Neri, Susan Grace T.

Start Date

23-6-2025 1:30 PM

End Date

23-6-2025 3:00 PM

Zoom Link/ Room Assignment

Y502

Abstract/Executive Summary

Single teenage mothers in the Philippines face unique emotional and psychological challenges as they transition from adolescence to adulthood. These challenges often stem from societal stigma, guilt, and the loss of personal aspirations, which negatively affect their mental health and self-identity. Guided by Intersectionality theory, this study explores the emotional experiences of single teenage Filipino mothers, aiming to understand how early motherhood influences their emotional well-being, identity formation, and personal growth. Six Filipino women, aged 18 to 55, were purposively selected to provide a diverse generational perspective. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis framework. Findings revealed that while younger participants expressed more immediate emotional struggles, older participants tended to reflect on their experiences with greater emotional perspective and a developed sense of resilience. Common coping mechanisms included support from family, faith, and self-care practices. The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive policies offering financial, educational, and emotional support for young mothers, as well as the importance of a more inclusive and practical sex education curriculum. Future research should aim to involve a more diverse and representative sample of participants to further understand the emotional journeys of single teenage mothers. By shedding light on these experiences, the study seeks to inform the development of more effective interventions for young mothers in the Philippines.

Keywords

Single Mother; Teenage Mother; Emotional Experiences; Transformations; Intergenerational

Research Theme (for Paper Presentation and Poster Presentation submissions only)

Gender, Human Development, and the Individual (GHI)

Initial Consent for Publication

yes

Statement of Originality

yes