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Abstract

Although programs exist to support teen parents, little is known about the daily life patterns of teen mothers. This study used a mixed methods approach to examine teen mothers' time allocations and occupational choices. The researchers interviewed and collected experiential time samples from nine teen mothers during a 3-week period. The teen mothers were their children's primary caregivers, had ages ranging from 14 to 20 years, and lived in a rural community. Findings indicated that the teens spent the majority of their time engaged in instrumental activities of daily living that involved caring for their children because of feelings of obligation, performed most of their occupations at home, and spent more time engaged in passive than active leisure occupations. This study has implications for occupational therapy related to teen parenting programs.

Keywords

occupations teen pregnancy time use

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Time Use of Teen Mothers

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