Exploring the Feasibility and Acceptability of an Online Arts-Based Mindfulness Program for Adolescent Mothers

ABSTRACT Adolescent mothers experience high levels of psychological distress due to social disadvantage, adversities, and limited supports. These issues were exasperated by the requirement of pandemic stay-at-home orders and the closing of in-person programs and services. Given the risks associated with adolescent mothering and the impact on their children’s developmental functioning, it is imperative that intervention programs are implemented to support these young mothers. There is a dearth of research that explores the feasibility of using online programming with adolescent mothers. This article describes our experiences delivering an arts-based mindfulness program online to adolescent mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Several challenges were encountered with respect to engagement and facilitation including high attrition rates and numerous disruptions during programming. Although the participants were motivated and interested in the program, they experienced numerous barriers to attendance and participation. Challenges with respect to technology, parenting, and family life significantly impacted the feasibility of online delivery. Future studies could attempt to address the social inequalities experienced by adolescent mothers to improve engagement and the effectiveness of online programs.