Pregnant Adolescents: How do Social Worker's assess their parenting capacity?

Abstract

It is the role of Child, Youth and Family (CYF) Social Workers in Aotearoa New Zealand to decide whether pregnant adolescents have the capacity to raise and effectively parent their children when reports of concern are received. This research identified issues that Social Workers consider when assessing adolescent parental capacity and how their views and opinions influence practice and decision making. Social Workers’ assessments were considered through a qualitative research study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven CYF Social Workers across New Zealand. The research found that assessment and decision making is subjective and based upon a number of factors, including the informal and formal supports in place and the capacity of the young person. Supervision and Consults were not fully utilised to support Social Workers’ decision making. Residential parenting programmes featured as a potential intervention from the baby’s birth. There was a high frequency of pregnancy due to rape or unlawful sexual connection raising ethical questions regarding paternal family involvement in assessment and decision making. Social Workers’ beliefs about adolescents raising children varied, with themes of empathy for the young person and concerns about egocentrism emerging.