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Preventing the tragedy of neonaticide
Doris C Vallone1, Lori M Hoffman
1School of Nursing, Widener University, Chester, Pa 19013, USA. doris.vallone@widener.edu
Holistic Nursing Practice
|November 5, 2003
Summary
Pregnancy denial can lead to neonaticide, the killing of newborns within 24 hours. This tragic outcome, affecting 150-300 infants annually, often goes undetected by caregivers and healthcare professionals.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Psychology
- Neonatal Health
- Adolescent Psychology
Background:
- Pregnancy denial is a critical issue with severe consequences, including neonaticide.
- Neonaticide, the killing of an infant within the first 24 hours of life, occurs annually in 150-300 cases.
- Adolescents are particularly susceptible to pregnancy denial due to anxiety and fear surrounding unexpected pregnancies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the tragic consequences of pregnancy denial, specifically neonaticide.
- To underscore the prevalence and underdetection of pregnancy denial.
- To emphasize the vulnerability of adolescents to pregnancy denial.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on neonaticide and pregnancy denial.
- Analysis of reported neonaticide statistics.
- Discussion of psychological factors contributing to denial in adolescents.
Main Results:
- Between 150 and 300 neonaticides occur yearly.
- The actual prevalence of pregnancy denial remains unknown.
- Pregnancy denial frequently goes unrecognized by parents, educators, and healthcare providers.
Conclusions:
- Nurses play a vital role in advocating for pregnancy screening in primary care.
- Educating parents and teachers about pregnancy denial is crucial.
- Early identification and intervention are essential to prevent neonaticide.