The aim of this study was to explore the psychological effects of termination of pregnancy by choice amongst adolescents within the ages of 18 to 21 years. Exploratory, contextual, qualitative design was used to determine the psychological effects of termination of pregnancy by choice amongst adolescents. Purposive sampling method as well as snowballing were used to select participants for the study. Data collection was done through in-depth, one-on-one, face-to-face interviews, using a semi-structured interview guide. The study highlighted that adolescents who seek abortion are unmarried and mostly still studying. The results revealed that adolescents experience mental ill health after termination of pregnancy due to feelings of guilt. All participants stated that abortion is murder of a life person and that it is a bad thing to do. The study revealed that counselling that is done before TOP focuses on the procedure of TOP. There is need for a holistic approach to counselling. As a guide, policy makers need to specify the mandatory counselling in the Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act (Act No 92 of 1996). / Health Studies / M.A. (Nursing Science)

The aim of this study was to explore the psychological effects of termination of pregnancy by choice amongst adolescents within the ages of 18 to 21 years. Exploratory, contextual, qualitative design was used to determine the psychological effects of termination of pregnancy by choice amongst adolescents. Purposive sampling method as well as snowballing were used to select participants for the study. Data collection was done through in-depth, one-on-one, face-to-face interviews, using a semi-structured interview guide. The study highlighted that adolescents who seek abortion are unmarried and mostly still studying. The results revealed that adolescents experience mental ill health after termination of pregnancy due to feelings of guilt. All participants stated that abortion is murder of a life person and that it is a bad thing to do. The study revealed that counselling that is done before TOP focuses on the procedure of TOP. There is need for a holistic approach to counselling. As a guide, policy makers need to specify the mandatory counselling in the Choice on Termination of Pregnancy Act (Act No 92 of 1996). / Health Studies / M.A. (Nursing Science)