Self Acceptance Among Young Adults Who Know They Were Born From A Married by Accident

Abstract

This research seeks to thoroughly investigate the process of self-acceptance in young adults who recognize that their birth resulted from a marriage stemming from an unintended pregnancy (married by accident/MBA). Using a qualitative approach within a phenomenological framework, information was collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews conducted with five early-adult participants and analyzed thematically. The results uncovered four main themes: the path of self-acceptance and reinterpreting life’s importance; the interaction of family relationships and emotional distance; social validation and the importance of acceptance; and self-regulation and gaining insights from life experiences. The findings indicate that self-acceptance evolves in a non-linear manner, initially characterized by rejection and identity confusion, eventually transforming into a more adaptive understanding of meaning over time. The lack of open communication regarding birth origins in the family contributes to emotional disconnection, while support from friends, close companions, and partners acts as a vital source of validation outside the family. This study improves understanding of the psychological intricacies of individuals with complicated birth backgrounds, while also laying the groundwork for developing counselling techniques that are better suited to this group.