By: Leslie Zindulka LCSW-R

Simply put: No, a teenager will not be more sexually irresponsible just because they are aware that adoption is an option, if they find themselves with an unwanted pregnancy.

Sexual irresponsibility happens amongst teenagers, who feel omnipotent, have poor communication with adults and a lack of education. Adolescence is a period in your life when you’ve got tons of energy, everything seems possible and there are no limits to your desires. This trying time presents a challenge for most parents, the teenagers themselves and ultimately our society. Teenagers are often characterized as rebellious, moody, and defiant. Adolescents tend to have a limited capacity for self-monitoring or the ability to accurately judge their own behavior. This can lead to situations of unprotected sex and unwanted pregnancy. This is why effective communication should be on every parent’s to do list as an important tool in keeping your teenager safe and aware of the consequences of their risky choices.

Fact: According to a report on births from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of U.S. births to unmarried teens, actually declined to a record low in 2000. Family planning and abstinence education has led to a decrease in unintended pregnancies amongst teenagers.

by Leslie Zindulka, LCSW-R

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