Before we take a look into the different methods that can be implemented to prevent teenage pregnancy let's see what facts does a recent study reveals. The particular research looks into certain facts that teacher, counselors, parents and even the school administrators should be aware of:
* Even though the teen pregnancy rate has shown a decline in the United States over the past decade, the rate is still significantly higher than that of other industrialized countries.
* Each year, between the ages of 15 to 19 years, over half a million teenagers gives birth in the United States.
* The incidence of teenage pregnancy is seen more among poor young women of color in the United States.
* Children who are born to such teen mothers are more likely to have been abused.
* During their pregnancy period they are more likely to be physically abused than adult women.
* The United States Government spends over billion each year towards expenses related to teenage pregnancy.
* Only 30 – 35% of teen mothers continue to complete their High School education.
Now, let's take a look at how Public schools can adopt the four methodologies outlined in the Character Education curriculum to prevent teenage pregnancies.
1. All schools should uphold the value of self-esteem and academic success which in turn will help in reducing the possibility of immoral behavior among teenagers.
2. By applying Character Education programs that include support, recreation, counseling and tutoring, high-risk behaviors before teen pregnancy can be substantially brought down.
3. Character education should also include programs and activities aimed at positive youth development. Youth development activities and programs should be built around these three important topics – Connectedness, Self assurance and Character.
* Through Connectedness Character education instills a state of security, close association with others and a sense that they belong to a specific group.
* Topics on Self assurance help teenagers to have high self-worth, and feeling of control on their life.
* Through teaching the value of Character a teenager feels competent enough to attain their career of choice and a satisfying relationship with their family, peers and others.
Character education not only should the incidence of teenage pregnancy but also should promote student achievement. All schools need to set high principles and values for all their students and should embrace proper evaluation and testing strategies to implement effective character education curriculum.
4. Teachers, counselors, school administrators and parents need to work mutually to share a common vision about character education curriculum that is more effective in order to impart in all students.
Academic instruction isn't the only responsibility teachers have in today's classrooms. More and more, teachers are being called on to teach students about values ... things like making good decisions, the showing of respect, taking responsibility, choosing friends, and having a positive attitude. It's a responsibility that could be overwhelming, considering the limited hours available in a school day, the number of kids in the classroom, and the diversity of backgrounds and personalities each child represents.
Character Education by Just Do The Right Thing" is a practical and powerful tool that equips educators to tackle values training with confidence.
By: Francis David
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