Teenage pregnancy in Brazil: Social, cultural and economic determinants

Abstract

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), adolescence is a modern phenomenon that is characterized by chronological, physical, social and cultural criteria. Furthermore, she recommends adolescence as the period between 10 and 19 years old. In this sense, it is crucial to consider the factors that led these adolescents to experience early motherhood, as well as their expectations, and recognize them as subjects of rights and duties. Furthermore, it is essential to analyze the social, cultural and economic aspects in which these adolescents are inserted. The methodology adopted in this research was an integrative literature review. To investigate the issue raised and integrate, evaluate and synthesize the results of relevant studies, standardized analysis and replication techniques of similar studies were used. These studies reveal the diversity of perspectives and the complexity of the social, cultural and economic determinants involved in teenage pregnancy in Brazil, highlighting both convergences and possible divergences that must be considered for a holistic and effective approach to preventing and mitigating this phenomenon. Furthermore, studies show that the effectiveness of sexual education in schools is still insufficient to prevent early pregnancies, and that the cultural idealization of motherhood can encourage early pregnancy. The intersectionality of factors such as social class, gender and race reveals profound inequalities that perpetuate teenage pregnancy, especially in regions with great economic disparities.