In a recent The Economist article, “Growing Pains”, the author discusses the rise in teenage pregnancies across the United States. Even though the rate of pregnancies within teenagers declined 34% from 1991 – 2005, the results from past few years show an increase by five percent. Many blame the education system for not providing all the information to young girls. The article states that in many states the students only receive abstinence only education, and receive little information about safe sex or other uses of contraception. In many conservative states, such as Texas, scared tactics are utilized. For example, kids are told sex before marriage leads to divorce, suicide, poverty and a disappointed God. However, teenage pregnancy is still on the rise, especially in Texas. The article continues on to propose that maybe education is not the problem, but simply access to contraceptives posses problem.
I agree with the article that the education is not the main problem and most of the problem arises because many do not have the money/ health insurance to obtain contraceptives. However, I do not believe that the education aspect should be taken so lightly. Education influences the laws enforced in a country. Currently, in many states, if a girl is under the age of 18 and even with a child, she still has to obtain parental consent for prescription contraceptives. Making it difficult for young adults to have access to contraceptives will not discourage sex, but simply make it easier for them to become pregnant. I believe it all starts with education. If only abstinence education is taught, and safe sex is not encouraged, little legislative reform will arise.
If you would like to read the article, please click here!
I agree with the article that the education is not the main problem and most of the problem arises because many do not have the money/ health insurance to obtain contraceptives. However, I do not believe that the education aspect should be taken so lightly. Education influences the laws enforced in a country. Currently, in many states, if a girl is under the age of 18 and even with a child, she still has to obtain parental consent for prescription contraceptives. Making it difficult for young adults to have access to contraceptives will not discourage sex, but simply make it easier for them to become pregnant. I believe it all starts with education. If only abstinence education is taught, and safe sex is not encouraged, little legislative reform will arise.
If you would like to read the article, please click here!
I agree with you Bhandari, however i think the sex education in schools should change. There should be comprehensive programs in public schools. Students are unaware of certain contraceptives methods and abstinence-only program marketing towards students who are still a virgin. I believe that teen pregnancies and STI's rate will reduce if comprehensive programs are implemented.
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