The majority of studies of adolescent parenthood have focused on the relationship between fertility behavior and various social, economic and demographic factors rather than the role of psychological processes in wanting a child. To study the role that motivational factors play in the experiences and processes associated with adolescent parenthood, the Values of Children Questionnaire was administered to 95 adolescent mothers and expectant mothers. Subjects were also asked about their expectations for their own and their family's involvement in child care. Results showed that the number of previous pregnancies was positively related to higher values of children, as was lower socioeconomic status, race (being black), living in a rural community, and lower employment. Values also increased with age. Finally, relationships were found between values of children and the adolescents' expectations and reports of their own, and significant family members' involvement in the physical maintenance, physical caregiving, and attachment components of child care. The findings suggest that an important function of intervention programs would be to help the adolescent develop more realistic expectations about her role and the role of others in caring for the child. (JAC)