Teenage Pregnancy as a Social Problem

Teenage pregnancy as a social problem

Gina Dudley

University Of Phoenix

Abstract

Teenage pregnancy as a social problem

Many social problems exist within this nation. They can range from social poverty, school violence, and diseases such as HIV and AIDS. Teenage pregnancy is currently regarded as a social problem. Although there has been a decrease in adolescent pregnancy over the last decade, it is particular encouraging; it must be viewed with caution. The United States continues to be the leader among teenage pregnancy and birth rates among the other country. The perception of teenage pregnancy as a social problem in the United States is falling. Most consider this a major problem in the black and minority population. Teen pregnancy has declined 14% since 1990, reaching its lowest annual rate in more than 20 years. (Spear, 2008) The major issue that has emerged in teen pregnancy was cultural and social norms. The lack of self-esteem and possible lack of family structure, drug addiction, and permissive parents may have all contributed to the continuation of this problem. "There has also been a link shown that students who show a low interest in school will result in teen pregnancy" (Teen Pregnancy, 2009).

Recent research evidence has proven that rational approaches to reducing teenage pregnancy such as sex education are not effective on their own (Harden, 2009). Social disadvantage refers to a range of social and economic difficulties that an individual can face such as race, educational level, and socioeconomic position.

Over the past decade, numerous studies have been done on the topic of adolescent pregnancy. When researching this social problem I would establish a method to start the research. It would be broken into three parts. I would first establish a relationship with the persons who I am studying. Secondly, I would then address the impact of the teen pregnancy and social determinant of the person. Last, I would review the findings and evaluate what was discovered. The majority of studies have been quantitative in nature with the lack of the study of personal perspective.

I would use qualitative studies to conduct the research. Using this research method would help me to gain insight into the experience of teenage pregnancy, compare and contrast the findings of the study and discuss the implications for any nursing and further study. Several qualitative research methods has reported that pregnancy teenagers assign positive meaning to early maturity and believe that mother hood will transition them into adulthood and bring purpose or meaning to their lives. Using the qualitative method, I am able to examine the personal