Parental and Peer Attachment as Predictors of SRH Knowledge, Attitudes, and Educational Outcomes in Pregnant Adolescents in Nigeria

Background Pregnant adolescents in Nigeria experience intersecting health and educational vulnerabilities. Guided by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, this study examined the influence of parental and peer attachment on sexual and reproductive health knowledge (SRHK), sexual attitudes (SA), and educational outcomes (EO), with religious belief assessed as a potential mediator. Methods A cross-sectional study of 400 pregnant adolescents aged 14–19 was conducted across three culturally diverse Nigerian states. Data were collected using validated instruments and analysed using bootstrapped Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). Results Parental attachment significantly predicted SRHK (β = 0.219, p < .001), but not SA (β = − 0.01, p = .833). Peer attachment showed negative associations with both SRHK (β = − 0.118, p = .012) and SA (β = − 0.103, p = .042). SA significantly predicted EO (β = 0.165, p < .001), while SRHK did not. Religious belief was not a significant mediator but independently predicted EO (β = 0.216, p < .001). Conclusion Parental support enhances SRHK, while peers may reinforce negative attitudes. Religious belief contributes positively to academic outcomes but does not mediate SRH variables. Interventions should address peer dynamics, promote parent–child SRH communication, and collaborate with faith-based institutions to support pregnant adolescents’ education.