With one voice 2002: America’s adults and teens sound off about teen pregnancy

This document reports the results of a survey conducted by the National Campaign to Prevent Teenage Pregnancy, which explores what both American adults and teenagers think about teenage pregnancy and related issues. This is the second annual survey conducted as part of the With One Voice campaign, whose aim is to engage in a national conversation regarding teen pregnancy and to supplement behavioural data with public attitudes. Overall, the survey found that adults and teens in particular, hold more cautious attitudes toward early and casual sex than is generally believed.

The results of the survey found that despite the polarised arguments over abstinence or contraception, the American population holds a relatively middle ground views on preventing teenage pregnancy and parenthood. The majority of those surveyed felt that more information on both abstinence and birth control was desirable. Concerns that this sends out a mixed message were minimal, as many felt stressing abstinence, along with contraceptive information was a clear and specific message. Findings also discussed the strong influence of parents, and peer pressure, increased awareness as a result of media coverage and different gendered experiences. [adapted from author]