QAHE - London Metropolitan University
QAHE - London Metropolitan University
Partnership
Department of Health and Social Care
Guidelines for Completing the Dissertation Project
Compiled by Solomon Afework/ Lucky Amaugo
June 2023
Title:
By XYZ
ID: 000000000
Supervised by ..
A dissertation submitted to the department of Health and Social Care, Faculty of . in partial fulfilment for the award of the top up degree of BSc in Health and Social Care of the London Metropolitan University
Submitted ..
Abstract
A summary of the dissertation including the research aim, methodology, key findings and implications (250-300 words). (written after all sections of the dissertation have been completed)
Acknowledgement
Optional section where a student can express gratitude to those who supported the research. (written after all sections of the dissertation have been completed)
Dedication (optional).
List of figures and tables (if applicable).
List of abbreviations and acronyms (if applicable).
List of definitions (if applicable).
Chapter 1: Introduction to the Research
1.0 Introduction to the chapter (gives what is contained in the chapter)
1.2 Background to the problem (gives the wider context of the problem)
1.3 Aims/ objective or research questions (identifies the issue to be discussed how it will be discussed or how the research question will be answered)
1.4 Rationale of the research (identifies the reasons for the research)
1.5 Significance of the research (gives the benefits of the findings from the research)
1.6 Summary of the chapter (gives what has been presented in the chapter)
Chapter 2: Literature Review
2.0 Introduction to the chapter (gives what is contained in the chapter)
2.1 Broad literature review on the research topic (gives wider understanding of the topic from different perspectives)
2.2 Theoretical framework (gives a theory or models that inform your research)
In a theoretical framework, give the principles of the theory or model (what the theory says). Show how the theory explains your research problem.
In the example above, Maslows Theory of Hierarchy of Needs can be used to explain the relationship between deprivation and a particular disease. A theory does not necessarily have to be diagrammatic.
2.3 Gaps in the literature (summarises issues in the literature to be addressed)
2.4 Summary of the chapter (gives what has been presented in the chapter)
Chapter 3: Research Methodology
3.0 Introduction to the chapter (gives what is contained in the chapter)
3.1 An overview of your research method and a justification for your approach (secondary researchsystematic reviews). as compared to primary research.
This includes the philosophical aspects of the research (gives the perspective guiding the research)
3.2 Data collection method (gives the methods used to find literature)
3.3 Data sources (gives the places e.g. journals, etc. where the literature was found)
3.4 Inclusion and exclusion criteria (gives conditions that guided choice of literature)
3.5 Data analysis (gives how the literature was analysed)
3.6 Research ethics (gives how ethical concerns were addressed in your research)
3.7 Limitations of the research (problems encountered and how you dealt with them)
3.8 Summary of the chapter (gives what has been presented in the chapter)
Chapter 4: Results/Findings
4.0 Introduction to the chapter (gives what is contained in the chapter)
4.1 Result for question/objectives one (reports details of research question/objective
one)
4.2 Result for question/objectives two (reports details of research question/objective
two)
4.3 Result for question/objectives three (reports details of research
question/ objective three)
4.4 Summary of the chapter (gives what has been presented in the chapter)
Chapter 5: Discussion and conclusion
5.0 Introduction to the chapter (gives what is contained in the chapter)
5.1 Findings and discussion of results (gives a synthesis and your view of the results)
5.2 Conclusions (what do you conclude from results of your research?)
5.3 Recommendations (what do you recommend to be done based on your results)
5.4 Summary of the chapter (gives what has been presented in the chapter)
References
Harvard referencing guideline to be followed
Appendices
Operational definition of terms (defines all key terms used in the research)
Data summary table 1 of journal articles (summarises the journal articles retrieved)
Example
GUIDELINES FOR STRUCTURE OF THE ABSTRACT
Introduction
The introduction section gives an overview of the research, the problem being addressed and the purpose of the research
Methodology
The methodology section gives the methods used in the research
Results
The results section gives the results of the research
Conclusions and Recommendations
The section gives the take home messages and what needs to be done.
The abstract should not exceed 300 words or half a page and the line spacing should 1 (single space).
GUIDELINES FOR LINE SPACING OF THE DISSERTATION
Main body of the Dissertation
Line spacing of the main body of your dissertation (from chapter 1 5) should be 1.5 as shown below.
2.1 Line Spacing 1.5
The dementia is now being considering as one of the global epidemics because of its adverse impacts along with the increasing trends of number across the world (World Health Organization, 2015). It has been found that the number of people with dementia is estimated of 47.47 million in 2015 and it estimating to reach by 75.63 million by 2030 and 135.46 million by 2050 (Alzheimers disease International, 2013). For this regard, it is assuming that this study will enrich existing knowledge and understanding about the effects of dementia in the UK.
Title: Understanding Factors Contributing to Teenage Pregnancy in Ghana.
By Prisca Brenda Buhwa
ID: 10121944
Supervised by Maria Cardova
A dissertation submitted to the department of Health and Social Care, Faculty of London Metropolitain in association with QA in partial fulfilment for the award of the top up degree of BSc in Health and Social Care of the London Metropolitan University.
Abstract
(250-300 words).
Acknowledgement
Chapter 1: Introduction to the Research
1.0 Introduction:
WHO (2004) defines teenage pregnancy as a pregnancy between the ages of 10 and 19 years. Adolescence is a period of sexual maturation and curiosity. As a result, youths are engaging in sexual behaviors, which can lead to teen pregnancy. Every year, over 21 million girls (about the population of New York) between the ages of 15 and 19 become pregnant. According to the World Health Organization, around one-third of women globally give birth before the age of 20.
Teenage pregnancy is a global public health issue, particularly in African communities. It is crucial to delve into the contextual background to comprehend the multifaceted factors contributing to this phenomenon among African teenagers. Teen pregnancy is still a significant social and public health issue in Ghana, with consequences that extend to the well-being of teenagers and the nation (GSS, 2018). Like many other countries, Ghana is still struggling with the difficult problem of teen pregnancy. It is important to fully understand and tackle those variables that contribute to this issue to develop effective prevention and intervention strategies (Ackon et al., 2021).
1.2 Background:
Teenage pregnancy (TP) is a major global public health concern, with high rates in both developed and developing countries. The frequency of TP is significantly higher in poorer countries, with startling data demonstrating its tremendous impact, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. In this context, Ghana, a West African country, is dealing with the multifaceted issues brought by teenage pregnancy among its adolescents. According to several studies and reports, including those by Blum et al. (2015), UNICEF (2014), and the World Health Organization (WHO, 2020), an alarming number of adolescent girls aged 15 to 19 in underdeveloped countries become pregnant each year, with a substantial proportion giving birth. Adolescent pregnancy is common in Africa (18.8%), with Sub-Saharan Africa accounting for 19.3%. Ghana has a similar story in this regional context, as seen by data from the Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS) of 2014, which found that approximately 14% of pregnancies occurred among youths aged 15-19 years (GSS, GHS, & ICF International, 2015).
Teenage pregnancy has a complex etiology that is heavily impacted by social and cultural norms. Adolescent pregnancy is more common in low-income communities with limited access to education and employment prospects (UNICEF, 2014; WHO, 2020). Rural living, child marriage, a lack of educational attainment, and inadequate communication between parents and adolescents about sexual and reproductive health (SRH) issues have all been highlighted as key contributing factors (Bain et al., 2020; Odimegwu & Mkwananzi, 2017; Yakubu & Salisu, 2018). Furthermore, physical aggression increases the risk of teenage pregnancy (Tetteh et al., 2020). Teenage pregnancy has far-reaching psychological consequences, as well as maternal health effects. Adolescent mothers are more likely to have poor pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth, pregnancy-induced hypertension, anemia, and low weight at birth (Ganchimeg et al., 2014; Liabsuetrakul, 2012). Furthermore, the psychosocial consequences are severe, including educational disruptions, limited employment opportunities, and increased mental health worries such as higher rates of depression, suicidal ideation, and violent experiences (O'Brien Cherry et al., 2015; Wilson-Mitchell et al., 2014).
In response to these issues, many programs have been developed by governmental and non-governmental organizations to reduce the prevalence and impact of adolescent pregnancy. These activities include comprehensive sexual and reproductive health education, the promotion of contraceptive use, and attempts to avoid child marriage (Chandra-Mouli et al., 2013; UNFPA, 2016). Despite these efforts, teenage pregnancy remains a major issue in Ghana, particularly in rural regions (Ahinkorah, Hagan, Seidu, Budu et al., 2019; Ahinkorah, Hagan, Seidu, Mintah et al., 2019; Bain et al., 2020).
While previous research has provided light on the reasons of teen pregnancy in Ghana, there is a considerable vacuum in knowing historical trends and patterns. As a result, narrowing this gap is crucial for effectively directing future intervention initiatives. As a result, the goal of this study is to investigate the increase rate and trends in teenage pregnancy among Ghanaian adolescent women aged 15 to 19. Furthermore, it intends to investigate the changing pattern of major factors associated with adolescent pregnancy over time, with the overarching goal of guiding the development of targeted and evidence-based intervention strategies.
1.3 Aims/ objective
The aim of this secondary research is to understand the factors contributing to teenage pregnancy in Ghana.
Objectives:
To investigate the prevalence and consequences of teenage pregnancy among Ghanaian adolescent women aged 15 to 19.
This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of adolescent pregnancy in a specific demographic group in Ghana, with a focus on public health and social well-being.
2. To identify the social, cultural, and economic factors that influence teenage pregnancy in Ghana.
This goal is to investigate the different elements that influence the prevalence of adolescent pregnancy, such as social norms, cultural practices, and economic conditions in Ghana.
3. To evaluate the efficacy of Ghana's existing intervention programs targeted at reducing adolescent pregnancy rates.
This goal is to assess the impact of governmental and non-governmental efforts aimed at reducing the occurrence and consequences of adolescent pregnancy, with a particular emphasis on their efficacy in the Ghanaian setting.
Research Questions:
1. What is the current prevalence of teenage pregnancy among Ghanaian adolescent women aged 15 to 19, and how has this rate changed over time?
The purpose of this research project is to identify the current size of adolescent pregnancy in Ghana, as well as any trends or changes in its occurrence over time.
2. What social, cultural, and economic factors contribute to Ghana's high teen pregnancy rates?
This research project seeks to identify and investigate the different contextual factors that influence the prevalence of adolescent pregnancy in Ghana, such as society norms, cultural practices, and economic conditions.
3. What are the maternal and psychological consequences of an adolescent pregnancy in Ghana?
The research project aims to investigate the health and social effects of adolescent pregnancy for both mothers and children, such as maternal health outcomes and psychological well-being.
4. How effective are Ghana's current prevention efforts in minimizing the prevalence and impact of adolescent pregnancy?
This topic seeks to analyze the success and limitations of governmental and non-governmental activities targeted at addressing teenage pregnancy in Ghana, as well as their effects on lowering the prevalence and mitigating the consequences of teenage pregnancy.
The rationale for the research
This study is motivated by the urgent need to address Ghana's major public health issue of teenage pregnancy. According to Blum et al. (2015), teenage pregnancy endangers the health and well-being of adolescent girls, their children, and the community. Furthermore, UNICEF (2014) underlines that teenage pregnancy is commonly linked to social and economic disparities, exacerbating existing inequalities and hindering the development prospects of affected individuals and communities. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights the need of evidence-based interventions in preventing teen pregnancy (WHO, 2020).
Given the high prevalence of adolescent pregnancy in Ghana, as evidenced by data from the Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GSS, GHS, & ICF International, 2015), there is an urgent need to increase our understanding of the phenomenon. The project aims to inform the development of targeted and evidence-based intervention techniques in Ghana by examining historical patterns and identifying the underlying causes of adolescent pregnancy. Furthermore, assessing the effectiveness of current interventions is crucial for maximizing resource allocation and improving outcomes for adolescent girls and their communities (Ahinkorah, Hagan, Seidu, Budu et al., 2019; Ahinkorah, Hagan, Seidu, Mintah et al., 2019; Bain et al., 2020). Overall, this study is motivated by the need to address the multifaceted challenges posed by teenage pregnancy in Ghana and contribute to the development of comprehensive and long-term solutions that promote the health, well-being, and empowerment of adolescent girls and their communities.
Chapter 2: Literature review
2.0 Introduction
"This chapter provides a thorough assessment of the available literature on adolescent pregnancy, focusing on Ghana. Teenage pregnancy is a complex phenomenon influenced by socioeconomic, cultural, and health variables (Blum et al., 2015). Understanding the existing body of knowledge on this subject is critical for contextualizing current research and identifying gaps that must be filled. The literature review begins with an evaluation of the prevalence and trends in adolescent pregnancy globally and in Ghana (WHO, 2020; GSS, GHS, & ICF International, 2015). It then investigates the socio-cultural variables, maternal health outcomes, psychological implications, and intervention strategies linked to adolescent pregnancy (UNICEF, 2014; O'Brien Cherry et al., 2015; Chandra-Mouli et al., 2013).
Chapter 2: Literature Review
2.0 Introduction to the Chapter
The chapter zeroes in on the landscape of teenage pregnancies in Ghana, which is based on a considerable number of reviews from the literature. This arrangement is designed to ensure the understanding of the subject from diverse angles with the review of credible studies, books, and reports (Amoadu et al., 2022). In addition to that, it refers to the theoretical frameworks that are used in the study, elaborating the philosophical foundations which are the basis for the research project.
2.1. A Comprehensive Research Review on This Theme
The literature overview traverses the broad landscape of adolescent pregnancy in Ghana, touching on the high incidence, causation, consequences and intervention measures from the multiple point of view of different disciplinary fields. The latest Ghana Demographic and Health Survey(GDHS) of 2014 shows that about 14% of pregnancies among mothers aged between 15-19 has been reported. Also, information from global organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) on the high rates of teenage pregnancy in Sub-Saharan Africa are an indication of Ghanas story being narrated from the same perspective.
Several factors which influence premarital teenage pregnancies in Ghana are exposed through the literature. Socio-cultural factors like early marriage and the non-availability of comprehensive sexual education, play a significant role in determining adolescent sexual behaviors as well as the health reproductive outcomes. Economic differences make dangerous conditions grow among the youth, and common problems in providing adolescents with right knowledge about sex and reproductive health lead to misinformation spreading these days (Amoadu et al., 2022). Moreover, researchers have identified that youngsters who are physically aggressive are also at a high chance of getting pregnant.
There are far-reaching effects of teenage pregnancies which are not just restricted to maternal health outcomes. They also carry residual psychological effects. Teenage mothers depict higher risks of maternity-related complications. There is a higher chance for poor health outcomes and developmental problems in their children. The psychosocial consequences that include ruined education and mental health issues such as depression also come to grind with teen mothers.
The Government of Ghana and some non-governmental organizations (NGOs) developed several actions to make sure that there are fewer teenage pregnancies in Ghana. Among them are a complete program for sexual and reproductive health education, an increase in the acceptance and utilization of contraceptives cases and efforts to delay early marriage where possible, and also health services that are friendly to the youth (Amoadu et al., 2022). As these measures come into play there are still challenges such as the ones which arise in the end isles where numerous aspects of the society such as the medical care and educational opportunities are substandard.
2.2 Theoretical Framework
The theory of social ecology, health-social cognitive theory and the socio-demographic model of health serve as theoretical pathways of the study's undertaking in the understanding of teenage pregnancy in Ghana. Social ecological theory stresses that it is not only the individual factors but also the intra-personal, close peoples close perception of life, communities of people and ultimately society that plays a role in the development of health related behavior (Abotsi, 2020). It takes the whole view of health behavior when it comes to teen pregnancy. Social-cognitive theory looks at how the adolescents personal views and cognitive processes affect decision-making regarding reproductive health. In this regard, this theory takes note of how teenagers evaluate themselves and their relationships and how they respond to the social norms about sexuality and reproduction. Social determinants of health idea points at the fact that socioeconomic variables, cultural patterns, and environmental positions are the ones that define teenage pregnancy in Ghana which is the background for the policy formulation targeting the elimination of the social inequalities behind it.
Using these theoretical frameworks as a grounding point, the research study seeks to create a robust theoretical construct for analyzing and interpreting the findings guide generation of research questions and hypotheses which will help in development of evidenced based interventions that can work for Ghanaian teenage pregnancy (Abotsi, 2020).
Chapter 3: Methodology
3.0 Introduction to the Chapter:
The foregoing chapter sets out the courses for conducting investigations on teenage pregnancy in Ghana. Moreover, it presents the strategic framework as a key component for the research which regards the methodology. The beginning of the work shall span with a clear exposition of the selected research methodology whereby the systematic reviews done as secondary research is the most preferred solution for the study (Abotsi, 2020). This particular choice of methods is built on its power to bring into coherence all the literature that exists in the area and establishing a solid foundation for analysis and information generation which calls for a complex phenomenon of teenage pregnancy.
Besides that the chapter clearly observes the epistemological roots of the research, which focuses on pragmatism as the source of the observation of science usefulness. Further, the method of data collection is explained and the systematic literature search done using different electronic platforms like Web of Science, Scopus, etc. is delineated whereas the exact assessment of the reference list of all the studies to check for additional relevant articles is elaborated.
Additionally, the chapter provides accountability for the collection of data and the criteria used to select and exclude specific sources, which ensures credibility of the literature. The methodological rigor includes data analysis techniques which are empirical in nature (screening, extraction, synthesis and interpretation) as they look for candid derivation of meaningful insights (Terefe, 2022). The issue of ethical aspects is also mentioned showing the stable tendency to meet academic ethical standards and to be responsible to personal study participants.
Finally, this chapter openly discusses the challenges experienced while doing the research, which is a feature of faithfulness regarding potential biases and possible restraints. In conclusion, this methodological noteworthy serves the purpose of providing an all encompassing strategy that enables researchers to navigate the uneasy terrain of teenage pregnancy in Ghana and to eventually, but efficiently achieve meaningful and impactful research findings (Terefe, 2022).
3.1 Overview of Research Method and Justification:
This investigation uses secondary research which consists of systematic reviews as the targeted method. Secondary research encompasses the perusal, interpretation, and amalgamation of previously gathered data and literature that other researchers may have accumulated rather than using primary research techniques with the collection of new data. Within the spectrum of this type of secondary research, current methodologies referred to as systematic reviews are perhaps the rigorous tools that require a systematic, structured, and comprehensive method to select, appraise, and synthesis studies on the specific subject (Lambonmung et al., 2022).
In choosing a secondary research type, especially systematic reviews, there are several factors taken into account as justification. First, work on the question of teenage pregnancy in Ghana requires using primary research methods, such as surveys or interviews. This will have practical implications in terms of resource constraints and logistical issues. Primary research frequently needs plentiful time, resources, and conditions for arrangements including participants recruitment and data collection, which is usually not in the framework of the given study with its limitations.
Besides, another trait of tertiary research is the range and depth of knowledge it provides. Systematic literature reviews bring together available research in different contexts and over different time periods thus through synthesis enable researchers to access a wide array of studies from researchers (Lambonmung et al., 2022). Comprehensive coverage of the topic enables a deeper insight and an ability to identify trends, patterns, and gaps in knowledge that may have not been noticed, if a researcher used only standalone studies.
Furthermore, systematic reviews possess the hallmark of methodological rigor and transparency. Thus, unlike narrative reviews that may be biased and subjective, systematic reviews employ a structured, repeatable procedure which reduces bias and increases reliability and validity of the results (Nang-Bayi et al., 2021). Through adhering to the criteria for study selection, data extraction, and synthesis set, systematic reviews attain high levels of consistency and impartiality in the research process.
On the other hand, synthetic reviews are perfect for solving problems that are complex and intricate and so typical of teenage pregnancy in Ghana. The essential elements of a systematic review are collecting and organizing evidence from multiple sources to achieve more comprehensive analysis of different factors, as well as consequences and interventions associated with teen pregnancy. A holistic view is what can help to shape policy and practice since it represents a more comprehensive grasp of the deeper causes of the issue and the chances of different strategies of solutions application.
In the light of that, I genuinely believe that a systematic review is the most practical and the best for this research due to its scope, depth, robustness and the ability it has to provide wide insights on the complex issue of teenage pregnancy in Ghana (Lambonmung et al., 2022). By putting together existing data from various related resources and highlighting major themes and findings across the studies, this methodological approach aims at adding value to the existing body of evidence and helping policy/program makers to design evidence-based interventions that will achieve a reduction in teenage pregnancy rates and provide much needed support to adolescent girls in Ghana.
3.2 Data Collection Method:
The process of data collection was carried out through systematic searching of electronic databases, such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and PsycINFO, using keywords as well as the search term relevant to teenage pregnancy in Ghana. Moreover, the lists of referenced articles and applicable journals were also monitored by hand to determine any more studies.
3.3 Data Sources:
The method of collecting the data in this study is systematic and thorough with the primary and most fundamental being to collect the vast range of literature about teenage pregnancy in Ghana (Nang-Bayi et al., 2021). The process itself started with a development of detailed search strategy, which included selection of keyword phrases that are related to teenage pregnancy and Ghana. This information search tactic was aimed to track the relevant research outcomes stemming from different disciplines: health, social studies, psychology, and education.
These micro literature searches were done online and it was through PubMed, Google scholar, Scopus and psycINFO databases. These options were selected because of their capacity to cover a very wide range of scholarly materials and for the thesis topic. Searches were realized as a result of predetermined search strategy, and the screening were used to classify the information into potentially relevant studies.
Combined use of electronic databases and hand-searching of reference lists not only from relevant articles but also from journals was concentrated, so that resistance to the electronic search results is mitigated. Employing such a strategy, we shall look for more study even those the electronic process is not successful and ensure there is no literature left behind (Nang-Bayi et al., 2021).
The data collection conformed to the pre-established parameters for inclusion and exclusion to obtain the relevance and effectual quality for the identified studies. The parameters of the review were developed to include papers that had been published in scholarly journals and/or received review of content by experts, conducted in Ghana or explored the problem specifically in Ghanaian adolescents communities, and focused on key determinants of teenage pregnancy. The reduction criteria were used to remove the groups from review which either adhered to the laid down criterion or were of low methodological quality (Eyeberu et al., 2022).
The continued attempts to diminish bias, in combination with the recognised need for keeping the quality of research data intact, were the major focus during the time of data collection. This job included independent search processing by two researchers who reached agreements supported by such measures as discussion and mutual consent. Moreover, we produced documentary showing of the study selection and decisions during the search process were kept to improve transparency and reproducibility.
As a whole, the data collection method used in this study was systematic, exacting, and clear-cut, intending to ensure any literature held the sample of teenage pregnancy in Ghana completely responsive to the objectives.
3.4 Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:
Studies conducted in Ghana or focusing specifically on Ghanaian adolescents: The literature was to contextualize with the study to ensure the studys applicability and for that only studies undertaken within or focusing specifically on the geographical situation of Ghana were included. To meet this simple criteria of generalizability among the target population and context of the interest, our findings ensured the ideal reach (Eyeberu et al., 2022).
Published in peer-reviewed journals or reputable reports: To acquire the quality and reliability of the studies in our research, we took only the ones that were published in peer-reviewed journals or reputable reports for consideration. Expert reviews of publications in the peer-review process make the research findings provide the support of science and are trusted by the peers. Lastly, the report also incorporated valuable information and analyses from aforementioned institutions to gain access to data from non-academic sources.
Examination of key aspects of teenage pregnancy: Studies which were carried out were required to focus upon the most significant problems concerning teenage pregnancy, like its prevalence, factors which influence it or interventions. Given this requirement, the literature reviewed was directly related to the study's thematic scope and explored the primary influences on teenage pregnancy in Ghana.
Exclusion Criteria:
Studies conducted outside of Ghana or not relevant to Ghanaian adolescents: This review incorporated only those studies that were carried out in Ghana, and populations other than adolescents in Ghana were not included. This decision also helped to ensure that the results were particular to the Ghanaian experience and relevant to the core population of interest (Eyeberu et al., 2022).
Lack of sufficient methodological rigor or quality: Studies of the methodological standards and quality that did not meet the minimum standards were excluded from the overall analysis. This criterion guaranteed that only a research of high standards with rigorous methodologies and reliable findings was adopted in the synthesis process.
Published in languages other than English: The analysis excluded articles published in languages other than English due to the challenge of not having proficiency in the languages and limited resources. Therefore, English was selected as the language of academic communication in this area, including public health and its related disciplines, which was the aim of this criterion to achieve consistency and accessibility.
Thus, applying the criteria of inclusion and exclusion the study has tried to guarantee the relevance, quality and completeness of the scientific literature as well as to minimize the psych and to produce the integrity of the research results. These criteria were applied on a regular basis as part of the data collection and appraisal process to select relevant studies that offered relevant insight to the teenage pregnancy situation in Ghana (Eyeberu et al., 2022).
3.5 Data Analysis:
The data analysis process of this study included several key steps undertaken to generalize the study findings on teenage pregnancy in Ghana. This analysis was carried out continuously and carefully in order to have a correct, consistent, and complete output.
Screening and Selection: First phase involved screening and selecting relevant research papers on the basis of predetermined criteria for inclusion and exclusion. Only those studies that fulfilled the criteria were incorporated in the analysis, and judged unsuitable ones were excluded. This step made sure that the investigations were concentrated on advanced, credible and appertaining to research question literature.
Data Extraction: After the studies most appropriate for the purpose had been located, an organized way to extract data from each study was chosen. The studies were described by providing study characteristics (such as the authors, publication year, and study design), methodology (including the sample size, data collection methods), findings (including prevalence rates, determinants, and consequences), and conclusions. The process of data extraction was performed using the same standardized form to ensure its similarity and dependability across all the studies.
Thematic Synthesis: Firstly, data were extracted from the selected reports and subsequently analyzed using the thematic synthesis. Thematic synthesis involves discovering major themes, patterns, and trends in the literature and ordering them into sub-categories that provide logical assembly. Teenage pregnancy has many underlying factors that must be considered in the systematic analysis, such as social, cultural, economic, and health factors that are associated with this happening and its consequences and interventions.
By employing a systematic and rigorous approach to data analysis, this study aimed to derive meaningful insights into the complex phenomenon of teenage pregnancy in Ghana. The analysis process allowed for the synthesis of diverse perspectives and evidence from the literature, providing a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing teenage pregnancy and informing evidence-based interventions to address this public health issue.
3.6 Research Ethics:
Ethically, this was one big aspect of the research so as to ensure the integrity and well being of all the people engaged in parties. This research is faced with second-hand data through systematic reviews hence; no approval through the ethics board was deemed necessary. Nevertheless, scientific principles were ethically observed by maintaining the confidentiality and anonymity of study participants through the accurate citation of sources, thus, avoiding plagiarism (Okine & Dako-Gyeke, 2020). Furthermore, we sought to authentically capture the outcomes of the included studies as well as use an open recording of our research practices. Besides that, fairness and elimination of bias were taken as ethical considerations during the screen and selection process so as to ensure the participants from all aspects were allowed to express their perspectives in the research. Ethical integrity was maintained in compliance with existing protocols and principles which embodied the very essence of the research conduct. The intention was to protect the dignity, rights, and well-being of all the participants and the workers in the process of research.
3.7 Limitations of the Research:
Several limitations were encountered during the research process, including:Several limitations were encountered during the research process, including:
The absence of highly credible research with the precise context to the Ghanaian teens pregnancy problem.
The problem of bias in choice and interpretation of things.
The Institute of languages was a huge barrier, as studies were published in only English.
Disadvantages of insufficient full-text articles availability in the case of particular research.
However, these limitations were overcome by adopting reliable research methods, transparent reporting of the results, and reviewing the publications (Akanbi et al., 2021).
3.8 Summary of the Chapter:
The chapter on methodology which deals with techniques used in the research project on teenage pregnancy in Ghana gives detailed information on the approach that was employed in this investigation. It starts by putting forward a criterion for the selection of secondary research such as systematic reviews over any other primary research approach to the study wherein having the feasibility concerns and the availability of all relevant data have been considered (Annan et al., 2021). After this, the part of the chapter talks of the philosophical assumptions on which the research is based, being pragmatism as the underlying bases on which the useful and actionable outcomes are desired.
The specifics of data collection are given, outlining the principle of the systematic search method, that is, searches are carried out in numerous electronic databases and the reference lists are hand-searched as a means of ensuring comprehensive coverage of relevant literature. Criteria of inclusion and exclusion are mentioned which are playing part in providing a standard to acquire the latest and quality studies (Ahinkorah, 2021). The data analysis framework, composed of screening, extraction, theme abstraction, and interpretation, is explained in detail endorsing and stressing the transparency and diligence of the methodology.
Ethical considerations are considered, stressing the importance of confidentiality, avoiding plagiarism and making sure that all the cited studies are represented in a reliable manner. The subsequent part exposes inherent issues such as lack of context-specific literature, linguistic bias, and deficiencies of quantitative studies that were included. Notwithstanding such challenges, however, the chapter emphasizes on the importance of the research methodology which aspires to create and deliver meaningful and helpful information about teenage pregnancy in Ghana (Amoateng et al., 2022). Ultimately, the chapter helps to identify critical issues relating to research on teenage pregnancy and provides a foundation for subsequent discussions, analysis, and conclusions.
References
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Abotsi, P. (2020). Experiences and coping mechanisms of adolescent mothers and intervention programmes to reduce adolescent pregnancy in Lower Manya Krobo Municipality, Ghana (Master's thesis, The University of Bergen).
Terefe, B. (2022). The prevalence of teenage pregnancy and early motherhood and its associated factors among late adolescent (1519) years girls in the Gambia: based on 2019/20 Gambian demographic and health survey data. BMC public health, 22(1), 1767.
Lambonmung, A., Acheampong, C. A., & Langkulsen, U. (2022). The effects of pregnancy: a systematic review of adolescent pregnancy in Ghana, Liberia, and Nigeria. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(1), 605.
Nang-Bayi, J., Wie, S. F., Siepaal, V., Kuufira, P., & Der, E. M. (2021). Factors associated with rising trend in teenage pregnancy within the west Gonja municipality of the Savannah region of Ghana. Open Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 11(9), 1273-1290.
Eyeberu, A., Getachew, T., Sertsu, A., Sisay, M., Baye, Y., Debella, A., & Alemu, A. (2022). Teenage pregnancy and its predictors in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Health Sciences, 16(6), 47.
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