THE IMPACT OF SOCIETAL STAND TOWARDS CONTINUOUS RISE OF TEENAGE PREGNANCY IN AKUNGBA-AKOKO, ONDO STATE

This study aimed to identify the factors responsible for teenage pregnancy in Akungba, Ondo state, and explore the attitudes and perceptions of the community towards it. The study also provides recommendations for interventions and programs aimed at reducing rates of teenage pregnancy. A convenience sample of 150 individuals residing in a specific geographic area was surveyed using a Likert scale questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 20 were used to analyze the data. Lack of proper parental monitoring, youth exorbitance, and peer pressure were identified as the most agreed factors leading to teenage pregnancy. Poverty, lack of information on contraceptives, and family structure were also found to contribute to the high rate of teen pregnancy. Early puberty and the parent's level of education were not significant factors. The study found that the majority of participants believed teenage pregnancy to be a problem and recommended comprehensive sex education programs, access to affordable contraception options, and community-based programs promoting positive youth development to address the issue. To reduce the incidence of teenage pregnancy, the study suggests increasing parental monitoring, educating youth, and improving access to affordable contraceptives. It also highlights the importance of comprehensive sex education, family planning education, and addressing cultural and societal attitudes towards teenage pregnancy. The findings provide insight into attitudes towards teenage pregnancy and offer recommendations for interventions and programs aimed at reducing rates of teenage pregnancy. Future research could explore other factors contributing to teenage pregnancy rates in the area in greater detail. KEYWORDS: TEENAGE, PREGNANCY, SEX, FEMALE, CONTRACEPTIVE.