Executive Functions and Emotional Intelligence in Pregnant Adolescents

Plain-language summary

Teenage pregnancy is a major global public health issue and is associated with a range of psychosocial, emotional, and developmental challenges. Adolescence is a critical stage of development characterized by the ongoing maturation of executive functions, including inhibitory control, emotional regulation, working memory, planning, and decision-making. These cognitive and emotional processes are essential for adaptive functioning and psychological well-being. However, when pregnancy occurs during adolescence, young women may face additional stressors, such as social stigma, limited social support, disruption of education, and economic vulnerability, which can negatively affect their mental health and coping abilities. Previous research has shown that pregnant adolescents may experience higher levels of emotional distress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms compared to pregnant adult women. Furthermore, difficulties in executive functions and emotional regulation may influence adolescents' ability to manage stress, regulate their emotions, and make adaptive decisions during pregnancy and the transition to motherhood. Therefore, interventions that strengthen emotional and cognitive self-regulation may play an important role in improving the psychological adjustment and well-being of pregnant adolescents. The present study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention designed to improve emotional intelligence and executive functions in pregnant adolescents. The program seeks to promote greater emotional understanding and self-regulation, as well as to support adolescents in coping with the psychological challenges associated with pregnancy. Participants will complete standardized psychological assessments before and after the intervention to evaluate potential changes in executive functioning and emotional well-being. By assessing the impact of an intervention on emotional intelligence and executive functions, this study seeks to contribute to the development of evidence-based strategies to improve the mental health and psychosocial outcomes of pregnant adolescents. The results may provide valuable information for healthcare professionals, psychologists, and public health programs seeking to support adolescent mothers and promote healthier developmental trajectories during pregnancy and early motherhood.

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