Teen Pregnancy Risks Associated with Literacy
Pregnancy News
Obie Editorial Team
Race appeared to be a factor in the study as well. African-American and Hispanic pre-teens tended to score lower on literacy tests and report pregnancies more often.
Why the Connection?
Researchers believe there is some connection between low test scores on literacy tests and feelings of rejection. If young girls feel rejected because they cannot read on the same level as other classmates they may look for attention and acceptance elsewhere. This feeling of rejection could lead to sexually promiscuous activity and teen pregnancy.
How are School Literacy Programs Working to Improve Literacy Skills?
Reading skills are built upon a basic foundation started in kindergarten. If the earliest skills are not mastered, literacy in pre-teen years can be affected. Many school systems have reading programs in place that promote nightly reading and reading time between children and parents to improve literacy. Frequent testing and special reading groups or tutoring are available in most school systems, but catching up with peers can be difficult and time-consuming.
Source: Ian M. Bennett MD PhD, Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania, Rosemary Frasso, PhD, MSc, CPH, Scarlett L. Bellamy , PhD Stanton Wortham, PhD Kennen S. Gross, PhD. Pre-teen reading ability: A potential predictor of teen pregnancy.