The Experience of Maternity Group Homes: A Qualitative Study of Mothers and Providers

Abstract

Foster teens are particularly vulnerable to the negative consequences of pregnancy. Maternity group homes (MGHs) aim to mitigate risks and promote stability among pregnant and parenting teens. This study applied the stage-environment fit and emerging adulthood frameworks to explore MGH experiences and exit outcomes from the perspectives of residents and providers. Mothers were 18 to 25 years old. Most participants were non-Hispanic, Black (64%) with the remaining mothers identifying as Hispanic (20%) or non-Hispanic white (16%). Mothers averaged 5 years in foster care, and 75% experienced 5+ placements. Qualitative interview data were collected from mothers aging out of care with MGH experience ( N = 25) and MGH providers ( N = 16) throughout one state. Using thematic and narrative analytic techniques, emerging themes were mapped onto dominant narratives explaining circumstances entering, living in, and leaving MGHs. Mothers’ experiences were shaped by their situations leading to placement; perceptions of individualized care; and level of openness to change. These conditions shaped how they navigated the MGH environment, their exit outcomes, and subsequent residential stability. Dominant narratives indicate the importance of individualizing care and connecting house responsibilities with independence when developing relationships and delivering services.