Dr. Katherine Morse shares vital insights on adolescent parenting at the African Populations conference in Malawi

Dr. Katherine Morse delivered a compelling presentation at the African Populations Conference held in Malawi from May 20 to May 24. Her paper, titled "Parenting whilst growing up - Understanding parental stress amongst adolescents with young children in South Africa," was a highlight of the session dedicated to adolescents and social exclusion.

In her presentation, Dr. Morse explored the unique challenges faced by adolescent parents, emphasising that their developmental needs and family dynamics require tailored interventions. She pointed out that while numerous parenting programs exist, they often overlook the specific needs of adolescent parents.

Dr. Morse's findings underscore the importance of developing targeted programs to support adolescent parents. She argued that specialised programming could significantly enhance the outcomes for both young parents and their children by addressing their distinct needs and challenges. Her research advocates for an adolescent-parent-focused intervention, which could provide much-needed support and improve the well-being of these families.

The session on adolescents and social exclusion provided a platform for important discussions on the diverse issues affecting young people in Africa. Dr. Morse's contribution was particularly notable for highlighting an often-neglected area in parenting programs, bringing to light the critical need for specific support mechanisms for adolescent parents.

Her presentation resonated with many attendees, sparking conversations about the next steps in developing effective interventions that cater to the unique circumstances of adolescent parents. The insights shared by Dr. Morse are expected to influence future research and program development aimed at improving the lives of young parents and their children across Africa.