Реферат: Teenage Pregnancy Essay Research Paper The Truth

teenagers are having sexual intercourse and more adolescents are using contraceptives.”

Researchers say that the recent trends in sexual activity and contraceptive use are the

result of a number of factors, including greater emphasis on abstinence, more conservative

attitudes about sex, fear of contracting sexually transmitted diseases, the popularity of

long-lasting birthcontrol methods such as the contraceptive implant (Norplant) and the

injectable (Depo-Provera), and even because of the economy. In addition, researchers say

that young people have become somewhat more conservative in their views about casual

sex and out-of-wedlock childbearing. Some attribute this change in attitude mainly to

concern about sexually transmitted diseases. Others say that it is because of the

involvement of conservative religious groups in the public debate over sexual behavior.

Many researchers believe that the strong economy and the increasing availability of jobs at

minimum wage have contributed to fewer births among teenagers. (Donovan 32)

Americans, however, seem to be against some of the methods used by these various

organizations to reduce the teen pregnancy rates. “The most controversial aspect of

adolescent pregnancy prevention is the growing movement to provide teenagers with easy

access to contraceptives.” Most Americans believe that giving teenagers birthcontrol pills

and/or condoms is the same as telling them that early sex is allowed. Some studies that

were conducted in Europe show that some clinics in Europe that distribute contraceptives

to teenagers have the same sexual activity rate as in the United States. However, in these

European studies, it is apparent that teen pregnancy, childbirth, and abortion rates are

much lower. (Berk 190)

Teenage pregnancy does cause many problems for the mother, child, and economy.

There are, however, some incidences where the mother overcomes this down-hill trend

and makes a successful life for her and her child. The outcome of teenage pregnancy turns

out better if the mother goes back to school after she has given birth. (Berk 190) Staying

in school may help to prevent teenage mothers from having a second pregnancy. (Planned

Parenthood 2) The outcome is also better if the mother continues to live with her

parents so that they can help to raise the child. Young, teen mothers need health care for

themselves as well as their children. An adolescent mother also needs a great deal of