Adolescent pregnancy options

Abstract

The range of pregnancy options available to adolescents each have significant ramifications for future educational and economic achievement. The changing societal context of adolescent pregnancy decision-making are described, and the characteristics of adolescents who choose to terminate their pregnancy, parent their child, or place for adoption are examined. The role of significant others in decision-making and the implications of mandatory parental involvement in pregnancy decision-making is discussed, as well as the roles of schools in promoting the well-being and potential of adolescents considering pregnancy decisions.

PIP: Future employment options and education are affected by teen pregnancy and pregnancy decisions. School-based professionals must be aware and understand the issues surrounding adolescent pregnancy in order to promote well-being and utilize school resources effectively. Rockefeller's National Commission on Children report recommends development of an expansion of active partnerships of the school with the community and family to provide prevention services and opportunities for recreational and cultural enrichment. Schools need to be the dynamic force which enhances the life courses of both pregnant teenagers and the larger youth population. Discussion focuses on the social context of pregnancy options, pregnancy options (influences of significant others and differences between pregnant adolescents), mandated parental involvement, and implications for service provision. Attitudes to adolescent pregnancy and pregnancy options have changed. Youth are exposed to more sexually explicit material in the media, i.e., 2400 sexual references/year in television and an 103% increase in sexual content since 1980. Social reality and viewers' preferences as a justification do not recognize the power of reinforcement of norms and a climate for nonmarital sexual behavior. Adoption is used as an example of how norms have changes from 95% of pregnant adolescents choosing adoption in the 1950s, 14% by 1971, and 5% the mid-1980s. The source of the decline is attributed to the decrease in stigma associated with adolescent pregnancy and the greater acceptability of single parenting. The societal pressures are reflected in the counseling options offered, i.e., adoption may not be provided as an alternative. An adolescent's pregnancy decision is most influenced by the adolescent's mother, the male partner, and peers. Prior to a pregnancy, the adolescent's best friend is more influential than a mother's attitudes. 38 states mandate parental involvement, but a teenager's perception of the quality of communication within the home is a better predictor of parental involvement.