Vol. 4 (2) Dec. 2022

Article ID. JHSSR-1197-2022

Addressing the Issue of Teenage Pregnancy in Malaysia: Elevating Self-Love

Andy Hickson and Leyla H. Tajer

Keywords:

Empowerment, Malaysia, Self-Knowledge, Self-Love, Teenage Pregnancy

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Abstract:

This study explores the issue of teenage pregnancy among Malay young women, who are suggested to have the highest proportion of teenage pregnancy rates in Malaysia. Due to limited access to sex education and a lack of provision of reproductive health services, this has contributed to a lack of self-love, knowledge of the self and the skills of managing emotions among young people. This paper proposes an application of a new reflective cycle on self-love and self-knowledge which could help young people in managing the emotional impact of their decision making. Following preliminary consultations with NGO’s and experts familiar with the issues facing teenage pregnancy in Malaysia, semi structured interviews were held virtually with seven pregnant Malay teenagers. Thematic analysis of interview transcripts yielded critical insights into the needs and emotional welfare of these young women. Overall, our findings suggest that Malay young people could benefit from the provision of sex and relationships awareness raising programmes and educational and creative self-love empowerment trainings.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37534/bp.jhssr.2022.v4.n2.id1197.p51