The purpose of the study was to explore the needs, attitudes and beliefs of adolescent fathers regarding fatherhood in Limpopo Province and to recommend health promotion initiatives that will address the unique needs of this group to enable them to manage this phase of their lives effectively. The study was conducted in Unit F clinic situated in the Lepelle Nkumpi, a local municipality located in the Capricorn District. Data collection methods: The study utilised qualitative, exploratory and descriptive approach. Non-probability purposive sampling was used to recruit adolescent fathers in Lepelle Nkumpi municipality to participate. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews to allow open and free expression. Interviews were tape recorded and transcribed. The population of the study was adolescent fathers between 13 and 19 years of age belonging to the Bapedi ethnic group, whose babies’ mothers were also adolescents. Participants’ beliefs and attitudes regarding fatherhood were highlighted. Their unique needs were identified and recommendations made for the health and social development practitioners on measures to address their needs. / Health Studies / M.A. (Nursing Science)

Teenage pregnancy is one of the social and health problems in many communities of South Africa and is escalating (Richter, 2005). Teenage pregnancy is also a global health problem as it affects the whole world and has been a concern to health workers like medical doctors, nurses, community developers, educators and parents (Maholo, 2009). In addition, the risk of dropping out of school due to pregnancy is considerable to teenagers as it results in a lack of qualifications and future unemployment.The purpose of this study was to determine the perceptions and experience of teenage fathers who are both learners and fathers and their views on the effects of teenage pregnancy. Furthermore, this investigation was undertaken to investigate the implications of teenage fathers‘ experiences on sex education. This study followed qualitative research approach as it is based on male teenage pregnancy which is a real consequence of teenagers engaging in sexual activities (Silverman, 2006). In this study the data collected through in depth interviews and personal journals were analyzed.This study revealed that all the teenage fathers interviewed were not happy that they were teenage fathers instead they were disappointed, shocked, and regretful and did not believe that they could become fathers at their respective ages. They also regretted themselves for becoming teenage fathers as it delays them in their studies. They have been taught about sex education at school in a learning area called life orientation so they do not blame school but themselves for their actions.

This study was intended to explore the role male partners play in preventing adolescent pregnancy in the Letlhabile area, of Brits district, which is located in the North West Province. Adolescent males and females whose ages ranged between 13-20 years were included in the sample. The inclusion criteria was determined on the basis of the adolescents who were pregnant and non- pregnant, as well as males who had already became parents and those who hadn't experienced fatherhood. Focus group discussions and individual in-depth interviews were conducted.ObservaJions and the review of existing documents were triangulated to gather valid and reliable information. Quantitative and qualitative data analysis were blended. The findings revealed significant factors that ranged from the reaction of parents and/or partner to the announcement of pregnancy, to issues that impact on consequences of multiple sex partners. The recommendations of this project deal with aspects that include contraception, sexuality education, parental involvement among many relevant policy issues. / Health Studies / M.A. (Nursing Science)

This study was intended to explore the role male partners play in preventing adolescent pregnancy in the Letlhabile area, of Brits district, which is located in the North West Province. Adolescent males and females whose ages ranged between 13-20 years were included in the sample. The inclusion criteria was determined on the basis of the adolescents who were pregnant and non- pregnant, as well as males who had already became parents and those who hadn't experienced fatherhood. Focus group discussions and individual in-depth interviews were conducted.ObservaJions and the review of existing documents were triangulated to gather valid and reliable information. Quantitative and qualitative data analysis were blended. The findings revealed significant factors that ranged from the reaction of parents and/or partner to the announcement of pregnancy, to issues that impact on consequences of multiple sex partners. The recommendations of this project deal with aspects that include contraception, sexuality education, parental involvement among many relevant policy issues. / Health Studies / M.A. (Nursing Science)