How To Be a Better Dad: Teenage Pregnancy
How To Be a Better Dad is the fatherhood and co-parenting section on SingleDad. Share and exchange great fatherhood advice from our members who are in all stages of fatherhood. In this article we’re going to discuss how to cope if your teenage daughter becomes pregnant.
Dear SingleDad,
I have 3 children and our oldest daughter who is 17 recently told me she is pregnant. Her mother and I are doing our best and trying to figure out a plan. Any advice?
-Henry, 45
Pregnancy is a huge change and shock to anyone, but especially when you’re a teenager. I imagine this is scary for all of you. Today’s article on SingleDad will provide you advice.
- Trust
You stated you and your daughter’s mother are “trying to figure out a plan”. You two are her protection and support, but you are not her. Your daughter is her own person with her own journey, and as hard as it may be to not jump in, you cannot. Show support and love, but remind your daughter you have trust for her that she will do the best choice for herself and that baby. No matter the age, people are still individuals and all have a choice.
- Communication and Support
Along with support from her parents seeking support outside of that may help. A therapist and/or someone who can relate to your daughter. This is a very overwhelming experience, but having support and being educated on different options she can have a moment to think about what is best.
- No Shame
As much as you both may feel disappointed, angry, betrayed, or lack of control, projecting that will not help the situation in any way. The pregnancy has already happened and your daughter is her own person who is able to make her own decisions. Allowing to remove the negative emotions will help you all think clearly and not become distant with one another.
Thank you for writing into SingleDad and I wish you all the best. Remember to come with love, support, and compassion. Leave the anger, shame, and control behind.
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