Peer-reviewed article
"<i>I was told to live happily… without telling me how</i>": Lived experiences of married adolescents, their spouses and families with a life skills intervention in rural Pakistan - A qualitative study.
Atif N, Hamdani SU, Huma ZE, Kanwal M, Kaukab A et al. ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view ·Key points
Limitations
Abstract
Adolescent marriage and early childbearing remain common in rural Pakistan, yet few interventions support young couples transitioning into parenthood. This study explores the perceived impact and implementation of preparing for parenthood (PPP), a life skills intervention designed for married adolescents and their families. A qualitative design explored participants' and delivery agents' experiences of PPP. Data were collected through 12 in-depth interviews and 4 focus group discussions with married adolescent women, spouses, family members and programme trainers. Thematic analysis was used. PPP was perceived as relevant, acceptable and empowering. Participants reported improved core life skills; communication, emotional regulation, problem-solving and decision-making that enhanced their confidence and preparedness for parenting. Home-based delivery by trusted female trainers and recruitment via community health workers supported engagement in mobility-restrictive, patriarchal settings. Challenges included limited male participation, family gatekeeping and the burden of domestic work. Participants suggested adaptations such as mobile content, male facilitators and media-based delivery to overcome these barriers. This study highlights the value of life skills interventions in equipping married adolescent women with socioemotional competencies necessary for effective parenting. Home-based, culturally grounded models paired with flexible, gender-sensitive approaches can foster empowerment and improve outcomes in low-resource, gender-restrictive settings.