The problem of teenage pregnancy is a common reality for many nations. Going through pregnancy at an early age could cause the teenage parents and their baby to experience many long-term negative consequences. You should know what the effects are.
It may result in mental health problems
Because they are not yet stable enough to go through the responsibility demanded of parenthood, teenage mothers usually suffer extreme pressures, and physical and emotional stress. This situation may lead to mental health problems in teenagers. Mental health problems that are not properly managed can lead to poor decisions and may cause the person suffering to resort to substance abuse. A teenage mother may also experience these mental health problems as a result of social isolation because oftentimes they have to take care of their children alone. Lack of support or loneliness may also cause the young mother to feel regretful or depressed, which may even lead to suicide attempts.
It can lead to long-term financial problems
Teenage parents will most likely suffer many financial problems for a very long time. Starting a family or taking care of a child is financially challenging and, since young people are not yet financially independent, they will end up having monetary troubles. Teenage mothers find themselves dealing with many responsibilities in addition to caring for a newborn, such as finding employment or finishing school, which only adds to the stress they are going through. Although a few teenagers have parents who are willing to support them financially, many are less fortunate in that their parents just don't have enough time or money to help out.
The teenager's child might have behavioral problems
Research at the University of Illinois has found that pregnancies in teenagers may result in the teenager's child having behavior problems. Many mothers in their teens have not yet reached the level of maturity to discipline and raise a child. Due to lack of proper parental influence, the child has a high chance of becoming maladjusted. Living in an abusive home can also cause many behavioral problems. Young parents may not have the right outlets for their frustrations causing them to build an abusive environment in the home. Kids who experience violence in the home may become rebellious and defiant.
The child may become underdeveloped or have health problems
During pregnancy, many teenage mothers aren't able to have the right level of care that they need. The mother may not receive adequate prenatal care and nutrition which can lead to problems with brain development and health of the baby. Young children of teenage mothers have higher risks of respiratory issues and other physical disabilities.
Being pregnant at a young age can lead to a lot of negative consequences but the young parents should not lose hope. Teenage parents may still manage their situation if they look for proper guidance and support.
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If you want to learn more about the alarming reality of
teenage
pregnancy, visit
http://www.at-risk.org/blog/1010/teenage-pregnancy-statistics-%E2%80%93-at-risk-youth/
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