Table 2.

Meanings of Early Childbearing Meanings as described by Adult American Indian Women Who Experienced Pregnancy at Age 18 or Younger (N = 30)

Themes and Sub Themes	Characterization
Mourning a lost childhood and expected future	“It was like a whirlwind.”
Seeking fulfillment	“To fill that void.”
Embodying responsibility	“I settled down.”
Reorganizing life	“It was a turning point for me.”
Confirming adulthood	“Working hard for my son.”
Curbing risky activities	“That is not the way I want to be.”