Effective interventions for adolescent mothers

This article reviews research on programs designed to reduce the adverse co nsequences of early childbearing. Programs that focus on the mothers' healt h and wellbeing have proved effective in changing life outcomes for the mot hers and improving the childrearing environment they provide for their chil dren. More narrowly focused programs designed to increase maternal employab ility have been ineffective. Comparisons of effective and ineffective progr ams suggest that the timing of service delivery is a critical factor in pro gram success, as is the choice of goals that are endorsed by the recipients . Future research should focus on means for preventing rapid repeated child birth in this population and should determine effects of programs for the c hildren as well as the mothers.