Delaware Commission for Women

The FACTS:

There is considerable evidence that early motherhood imposes economic disadvantages on both generations."
"In the U.S. about 40% of mothers who give birth during their teen years graduate from high school, and only 4% graduate from college."
"With limited education and less likelihood of marrying than non-parenting teens, early motherhood severely restricts opportunities for economic self-sufficiency."
KIDS Count in Delaware-1996

Teenz 2 Teenz

The ACTION:

From 1996 - 1998 the Commission focused resources on reducing the rate of teen pregnancy in Delaware by giving teens an opportunity to identify issues and engage in peer dialogue.
DCW sponsored TEENZ-2-TEENZ forums (in each of the three counties) attracting nearly 1,000 middle and high school students statewide.
In working with teens (students grades 7-12) to plan the teen-driven, adult-guided forum (Teenz-2-Teenz), the Commission learned that self-esteem, communicating effectively with parents and other adults, stress, peer pressure, drugs and alcohol and date rape are major issues impacting teen pregnancy

The FUTURE:

Delaware has seen a drop the rate of teen pregnancy. The Commission hopes to continue to facilitate dialogue on the issues the teens themselves have identified as significant motivation to postpone premature pregnancy.

Last Updated: Friday, 10-Aug-2007 12:44:16 EDT