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Abuse among pregnant adolescents: differences by developmental age
M A Curry1, B A Doyle, J Gilhooley
1Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201-3098, USA. currym@ohsu.edu
MCN. the American Journal of Maternal Child Nursing
|May 22, 1998
Summary
Abuse is prevalent among pregnant teens, with abused individuals experiencing higher rates of low birth weight infants. Routine screening for abuse is crucial for nurses assessing pregnant adolescents.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Reproductive Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Adolescent pregnancy presents unique challenges.
- Understanding the prevalence and impact of abuse in this population is critical.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of abuse among pregnant adolescents across developmental stages.
- To examine the relationship between abuse and pregnancy planning, school, substance use, complications, and infant birth weight.
Main Methods:
- Prospective survey design.
- Interviewed 559 pregnant adolescents (ages 13-19).
- Utilized Abuse Assessment Screen, self-reported substance use, and hospital records for birth weights.
Main Results:
- 37% of pregnant adolescents reported abuse.
- Abused adolescents had a higher incidence of low birth weight infants across all age groups.
Conclusions:
- High rates of abuse necessitate routine screening by nurses.
- Screening for abuse should be integrated into routine nursing assessments for all pregnant women, including adolescents.
Keywords:
AdolescentsAdolescents, FemaleAge FactorsAmericasBehaviorBiologyBirth WeightBody WeightCrimeDemographic FactorsDeveloped CountriesDiseasesDomestic ViolenceEconomic FactorsEducational Status--womenNorth AmericaNorthern AmericaPhysiologyPopulationPopulation CharacteristicsPregnancy ComplicationsPregnant WomenResearch ReportSexual AbuseSmoking--womenSocial ProblemsSocioeconomic FactorsSocioeconomic StatusUnited StatesYouth