The latest news concerning teen pregnancy is a little troubling. The CDC reports that teens are less worried about pregnancy than in the past. While the percentage of teens having sex has not changed much since 2002, the attitude towards having a child out of wedlock has changed quite a bit. The majority of teens, according to the survey, believe it is okay for an unmarried woman to have a baby.
Another interesting fact included in the report is about the most common methods of birth control among teens. The withdrawal method of birth control, also jokingly referred to as the “pull and pray method,” is second only to the condom and more popular than the birth control pill among teens. The withdrawal method is not a very reliable way to prevent pregnancy. Perhaps its popularity is a reflection of teens’ nonchalant attitude towards pregnancy.
The idea that having a child when you are young and single is no big deal is false for many reasons. Starting a family requires a lot of preparation. Running a family is a lot of work. There are many single moms and dads out there who are doing just fine, but you’d be hard pressed to find one who wouldn’t appreciate the help of a partner. A single mom relies on herself, but a married woman has the emotional and financial support of her spouse. When there is one parent and the child is sick, 100% of the family’s income is lost for those days he or she cannot work. But if there are two parents, potentially only half of the income is lost. Teen parents face even more difficulties and obstacles in comparison to older single parents. A teen may or may not have a driver’s license or a car. A teen cannot get the same type of job that an older parent can get. Teens also lack valuable life experience that can help them get through the tough times in their parenting journey.
Something needs to change. Teens need to be taught that having a child is a very serious life decision. The role of parent is best saved for those who have finished school and built a solid foundation. The struggles that a single mom goes through for her child should never be underestimated.