Influence of Socio-Cultural Practices on Teenage Pregnancy in Public Primary Schools in Magarini Sub-County, Kilifi County, Kenya

Abstract

Teenage pregnancy remains a major global public health concern with significant health, educational, and socio-economic consequences for adolescent girls. Complications related to pregnancy and childbirth remain among the leading causes of death among girls aged 15–19 years (World Health Organization, 2023; Neal, Channon, & Chintsanya, 2018). This study examined the influence of socio-cultural practices on teenage pregnancy among school-going adolescents in public primary schools in Magarini Sub-County, Kilifi County, Kenya.
A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed. Multistage sampling was used to select respondents comprising 96 teachers, 12 head teachers, 32 teenage mothers, and 32 parents of teenage mothers. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and interview schedules. The validity and reliability of the instruments were established through piloting and Cronbach’s alpha reliability testing. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics including Spearman’s rank correlation, t-tests, and multiple regression analysis using SPSS. Qualitative data from interviews were analyzed thematically to complement the quantitative findings.
The results revealed a statistically significant positive relationship between socio-cultural practices and teenage pregnancy (r = 0.617, p < 0.05). Cultural norms, peer influence, poverty, and community ceremonies were identified as key contributors to teenage pregnancy. The study recommends strengthening community awareness programs, enforcing child protection policies and improving the implementation of the school re-entry policy for adolescent mothers.