"Teenage Pregnancy": A Problem? Deconstructing Problematic Constructions in the Public Discursive Context of Samoa

Abstract

"Teenage pregnancy" should only be a "problem" when it is caused by the inability of a young woman to exercise and enjoy her right to sexual and reproductive health. This thesis investigates dominant social and moral constructions within Samoa that deem "teenage pregnancy" problematic and have thus negatively impacted a young woman's right to dignity. It explores the causal relationship between these constructions and the interventions and practices that address this "problem". It also examines how these constructions may prevent the desired outcomes of specific interventions. This thesis discusses how "teenage pregnancy" is 'targeted' as a problem "twice-over", both socially and morally. It critically analyzes this ‘targeting’ by deconstructing dominant discourses of key stakeholders, policies, reports, newspapers and popular literature within the public discursive context of Samoa. To a large extent, the distinctions between social and moral constructions of "teenage pregnancy as a problem in Samoa are "blurred". Consequently, this thesis categorises those that may be distinguished through deconstruction as more moral or more social. Such categorization is vital since it enables a deeper analysis of the ‘obstacles’ preventing young women from exercising their right to sexual and reproductive health. It allows for an understanding of the "imposition" of "social" interventions into a highly moral context and the tension that arises from this. As Samoan society rapidly changes, intergenerational tension is increasing. Accordingly, this thesis explores the existing anxiety that surrounds the ‘erosion’ of more traditional forms of control over young women’s sexuality within the aiga. Consequently, many believe that the rise in "teenage pregnancy" rates has resulted from young women’s engagement in "inappropriate activities", whether socially and/or morally. Recognising this brings to light the differences between lived bodily experiences and argues for the importance of naming ‘uncomfortable’ issues in order to bring about change.