Navigating Social Support: Building Resilience and Agency among Unmarried Adolescent Mothers in Rural Community. A case of Urambo District, Tanzania

Unmarried adolescent mothers (UAMs) often face significant social and economic challenges, exacerbated by cultural stigma and restrictive social norms. These young women are frequently marginalised, experiencing limited access to educational and economic opportunities due to societal social norms resulting in pre-conceived judgement and isolation. This study examines the role of key capitals in fostering resilience and agency among UAMs, focusing on rural communities sampled from Urambo district in Tanzania. A cross-sectional and mixed research approach was adopted. A total of 80 unmarried adolescent mothers participated in the study. Quantitative data were collected through household surveys, while qualitative data were collected through in-depth key informants’ interviews (KIIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs). Descriptive statistical analysis was used to analyse quantitative data using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM SPSS), while content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. The findings showed that most UAMs become pregnant aged between 13 and 16 due to poverty, lack of knowledge on sexual and reproductive health services (SRHS), peer pressure, and lack of parental guidance. It was revealed that social support from family, peers, and community health services plays a crucial role in building resilience, navigating social pressures, enhancing agency in decision-making. Other factors accounting for UAMs building resiliency agency include engaging in agricultural work, petty trades, and food vending. The study underscores the need for strengthening support systems and inclusive policies that address the unique challenges faced by unmarried adolescent mothers, promoting an environment where they can thrive despite the societal barriers. These insights have significant implications for designing community programs and interventions aimed at reducing stigma, building resilience, and enhancing unmarried adolescent mothers agency in similar socio-cultural contexts.