Universal Journal of Public Health Vol. 14(1), pp. 65 - 74
DOI: 10.13189/ujph.2026.140107
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Intergenerational Caregiving: A Case Study on the Challenges and Resilience of Filipino Parents of Teenage Mothers

Eunice M. Bao ¹, Rhea Marie T. Clar ¹, Ashley Marie H. Dela Cruz ¹, Angela Mae Violango ¹, Kerslyn P. Selgas ¹, Xhai F. Tajo ¹, Shara Leezza B. Resentes ¹, Mary Fair Ruval O. Estrera ¹, Roberto D. Samson Jr. ², Romel C. Mutya ^3,*
1 Department of Senior High School, Mandaue City Comprehensive National High School, DepEd-Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines
² Department of Mathematics, Maricopa High School, Arizona, USA
³ College of Education, Arts, and Sciences, Cebu Technological University-Danao Campus, Cebu, Philippines

ABSTRACT

With an increasing number of teenage pregnancies, understanding the dynamics of intergenerational caregiving is crucial. This study explores the challenges and resilience of Filipino parents of teenage mothers, addressing a significant research gap in understanding the emotional, social, and financial impacts on parental well-being. A descriptive phenomenological research design was employed, utilizing in-depth interviews with nine purposively sampled mothers of teenage mothers, and narratives were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that parents often experienced social shame and embarrassment, which led to isolation and strained relationships. Emotional and physical stress, compounded by financial difficulties, further intensified the parental crisis. Despite these challenges, parents demonstrated resilience by adjusting to new caregiving roles, adapting to new obligations, and seeking external support. The study emphasized the importance of a strong support system, both practical and emotional, in ensuring positive outcomes for teenage mothers and their children. The study underscores the importance of reducing stigma through targeted mental health support, community education programs, and comprehensive parental guidance initiatives. The policy suggestions from this study could serve as guidelines for addressing the multidimensional needs of teenage mothers and their parents.

KEYWORDS
Intergenerational Caregiving, Lived Experiences, Teenage Mothers

Cite This Paper in IEEE or APA Citation Styles
(a). IEEE Format:
[1] Eunice M. Bao , Rhea Marie T. Clar , Ashley Marie H. Dela Cruz , Angela Mae Violango , Kerslyn P. Selgas , Xhai F. Tajo , Shara Leezza B. Resentes , Mary Fair Ruval O. Estrera , Roberto D. Samson Jr. , Romel C. Mutya , "Intergenerational Caregiving: A Case Study on the Challenges and Resilience of Filipino Parents of Teenage Mothers," Universal Journal of Public Health, Vol. 14, No. 1, pp. 65 - 74, 2026. DOI: 10.13189/ujph.2026.140107.

(b). APA Format:
Eunice M. Bao , Rhea Marie T. Clar , Ashley Marie H. Dela Cruz , Angela Mae Violango , Kerslyn P. Selgas , Xhai F. Tajo , Shara Leezza B. Resentes , Mary Fair Ruval O. Estrera , Roberto D. Samson Jr. , Romel C. Mutya (2026). Intergenerational Caregiving: A Case Study on the Challenges and Resilience of Filipino Parents of Teenage Mothers. Universal Journal of Public Health, 14(1), 65 - 74. DOI: 10.13189/ujph.2026.140107.