Geoffrey W. Sutton PhD, Psychology and Culture

Pregnant Children   The U.S. has one of the highest rates of teen pregnancy in the developed world. The highest rates are in the states of New Mexico, Mississippi, Texas, Louisiana and Oklahoma. About 6% of girls/ young women 15 to 19 become pregnant each year. ( Guttmacher link ). Christianity is the dominant religion in the U.S. Christian morality dictates that people should have sex within marriage and most believe that abortion is not an option (some Christians offer consideration when a woman's life is at risk). Nevertheless, most teens have had sex by age 17 and nearly half by age 16.  When a girl becomes pregnant, she is at risk for a range of  health and life problems.  Anxiety and depression are common.  Should the girl have a choice in managing her pregnancy or should her parents be consulted? Questions Should parents be involved in the decision of a minor to have an abortion? Does religion play a role in attitudes tow...