‘Adolescence’, Pregnancy and Abortion: Constructing a Threat of Degeneration

Why, despite evidence to the contrary, does the narrative of the negative consequences of teenage pregnancy, abortion and childbearing persist? This book argues that the negativity surrounding early reproduction is underpinned by a particular understanding of adolescence. It traces the invention of adolescence and the imaginary wall that the notion constructs between young people and adults. Macleod examines the entrenched status of adolescence within a colonialist discourse that equates development of the individual with the development of civilisation, and the consequent threat of degeneration that adolescence implies. Many important issues are explored, such as the invention of teenage pregnancy and abortion as a social problem; issues of race, culture and tradition in relation to teenage pregnancy; and health service provider practices, specifically in relation to managing risk. In the final chapter, an argument is made for a shift from the signifier teenage pregnancy to unwanted pregnancy . Using data gathered from studies worldwide, this book highlights central issues in the global debate concerning teenage pregnancy. It is ideal for academics, and students of health psychology, women’s studies, nursing and sociology, as well as practitioners in the fields of youth and social work, medicine and counselling.