The Experiences of teen fathers in early marriages in Zimbabwe. Case study of St Mary’s, Chitungwiza · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author: Chirema, Primrose V
Title: The Experiences of teen fathers in early marriages in Zimbabwe. Case study of St Mary’s, Chitungwiza
Abstract: Teenage parenthood and early marriage are two grave concerns in Zimbabwe, with much past research inclined toward the teen mother. But the unique challenges encountered by teen fathers have been greatly marginalized. The current study investigated the lived experiences of teen fathers in early marriages in St Mary's-Chitungwiza, a high-density suburb rendered vulnerable through poverty, unemployment and limited education opportunities. According to a qualitative case study approach, in-depth interviews, systematic questionnaires, focus group interviews, and observation were conducted among purposively selected teen-age fathers.
Through thematic and content analysis, the study revealed that peer pressure, early sexual debut, unemployment, drug abuse and culture put pressure on early fatherhood. The study revealed that teen-age fathers were affected through interruptions in schooling, economic empowerment, psychological stress, health-related issues and increased vulnerability to domestic violence. Coping strategies of the teen fathers included seeking non-formal employment and receiving family support. The study concluded that there is an immediate need for specialized interventions providing educational support, economic empowerment, and psychological counselling complemented by intensive community awareness campaigns. It further recommends reviewing sexual and reproductive health education and the formulation of policies directed at young fathers, which would ultimately assist in breaking the interlinked cycles of poverty and early childbearing.
Date: June 2025
Publisher: BUSE
Keywords: Teenage parenthood; early marriage
Supervisor: Dr Makambanga

Item sets: Department of Sustainable Development

Media: PRIMROSE CHIREMA.pdf