Teen Dads Share Their Journeys in New Documentary Series

A new documentary series titled Dadolescence is shedding light on the experiences of teenage fathers in Aotearoa. The series, now available on TVNZ+, follows the lives of young dads, including Devalin, who discovered he was going to be a father at the age of 16.

In a candid moment on the show’s first episode, Devalin recalls how his life changed when his then 15-year-old girlfriend, Keirah, took a pregnancy test in the school nurse’s office. “I was freaking. I cried, to be honest,” he states, capturing the overwhelming emotions that accompany such significant news.

Devalin and Keirah had recently moved in with Devalin’s whangai parents in Palmerston North. The couple faced the added challenge of navigating their new responsibilities while still being teenagers themselves. They chose to keep the pregnancy news private for months, initially sharing it only with their biological parents.

Understanding the Reality of Teenage Parenthood

The journey depicted in Dadolescence not only highlights the emotional responses of young fathers but also the various challenges they encounter. Devalin describes feeling “mixed emotions” upon learning about the pregnancy. The documentary aims to provide an authentic glimpse into the realities of teenage parenthood, a topic often shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding.

Devalin’s experience reflects a broader narrative, with many young fathers facing societal pressures while trying to balance education and family life. The documentary features four other teenage dads from across Aotearoa, each with unique stories and perspectives. Together, they navigate the complexities of their new roles, offering viewers insights into their struggles and triumphs.

The series aims to foster empathy and understanding towards young parents, encouraging discussions about the support systems available for them. It also seeks to challenge stereotypes surrounding teenage parenthood, emphasizing that young people can be responsible and loving parents despite their age.

A Call to Action for Support and Understanding

As the documentary unfolds, it becomes clear that community support plays a vital role in the lives of these young fathers. Devalin and his peers demonstrate the importance of having a solid support network, be it from family, friends, or community resources.

The stories shared in Dadolescence serve as a powerful reminder that teenage parents deserve understanding and assistance as they embark on their parenting journeys. Viewers are encouraged to reflect on their perceptions of young fathers and consider how they can contribute positively to the narratives of those navigating parenthood at a young age.

This series not only amplifies the voices of these young men but also paves the way for broader conversations about parenting, support systems, and the societal expectations placed on young parents. As the documentary continues to air, it promises to inspire both compassion and awareness around the challenges and rewards of being a teenage parent.