Gran Canyon University Adolescent Pregnancy in NJ Response – Description
Svitlana
Adolescent pregnancy is the pregnancy of girls aged 10-19 years, leading to many maternal and neonatal adverse effects. These pregnancies have been a global concern for many decades and yet are still prevailing (Maheshwari et al., 2022).
Adolescents who have limited parental guidance or involvement in their lives may be at higher risk of engaging in risky sexual behaviors and experiencing unplanned pregnancies.
Pressure from peers and the desire to fit in or conform to social norms can contribute to risky sexual behaviors and increase the likelihood of adolescent pregnancy.
Two recourses addressing adolescent pregnancy in NJ:
1. The Partnership’s New Jersey Personal Responsibility Education Program (NJ PREP). The aim is to reduce the rates of teen rates of teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection (STI) within the state (PMCH of Northern NJ, n.d).
2. Birth Haven: Shelter and Hope for Young Mothers. Birth Haven is an independent, non-sectarian, non-profit organization that provides shelter, support, and education for homeless, pregnant women and girls (Union ResourceNet, 2023).
In 2018, there were 2,814 babies born to teen mothers in New Jersey, or 10 births per 1,000. In 2009, however, the teen birth rate was much higher at 6,408 births or 22 births per 1,000 in New Jersey, still lower than the national average in both years (Ursillo, 2020). The decline can be attributed to various factors, including increased access to comprehensive sex education, improved availability of contraception, and awareness campaigns highlighting the consequences of early pregnancy.
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