Intergenerational Caregiving: A Case Study on the Challenges and Resilience of Filipino Parents of Teenage Mothers

With an increasing number of teenage pregnancies, understanding the dynamics of intergenerational caregiving is crucial. This study explores the challenges and resilience of Filipino parents of teenage mothers, addressing a significant research gap in understanding the emotional, social, and financial impacts on parental well-being. A descriptive phenomenological research design was employed, utilizing in-depth interviews with nine purposively sampled mothers of teenage mothers, and narratives were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that parents often experienced social shame and embarrassment, which led to isolation and strained relationships. Emotional and physical stress, compounded by financial difficulties, further intensified the parental crisis. Despite these challenges, parents demonstrated resilience by adjusting to new caregiving roles, adapting to new obligations, and seeking external support. The study emphasized the importance of a strong support system, both practical and emotional, in ensuring positive outcomes for teenage mothers and their children. The study underscores the importance of reducing stigma through targeted mental health support, community education programs, and comprehensive parental guidance initiatives. The policy suggestions from this study could serve as guidelines for addressing the multidimensional needs of teenage mothers and their parents.