Difficult decision or set of decisions

When faced with a difficult decision or set of decisions, as in teen pregnancy, creating a
decision-making worksheet can be a valuable tool. This is similar to making a pros and
cons list which you may already do. For this assignment, you will all be writing about
teen pregnancy.
Instructions:

  • In a paragraph or two, define the problem.
  • Consider the alternative ways to address the problem. Write about all that you
    can think of, but you are required to identify at least four.
  • Next, consider both the positive and negative consequences of each option.
    Discuss at least two positive and two negative consequences for each
    alternative.
  • Then discuss your values that most relevant to the decision. Some of these
    values may conflict with the others, or conflict with family, community, or cultural
    values. The point here is not to make judgments on which values are right or
    wrong but to focus on your individual values, how you define them, and how they
    impact your decision.
  • Write a list of other people who may be impacted by any of the
    alternatives/decisions.

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Sample Answer

 

 

 

Teen pregnancy presents a complex and challenging decision for everyone involved. It’s a situation fraught with emotional, social, and financial implications, demanding careful consideration of all available options. This worksheet outlines the problem, explores alternative approaches, weighs the consequences of each, and considers the values at play.

The core problem is an unplanned pregnancy involving a teenager. This situation often disrupts the teen’s education, limits future opportunities, and places significant strain on their physical and emotional well-being. It also impacts the potential father, families of both the mother and father, and, most importantly, the developing child. The teen must make critical decisions about the pregnancy, their future, and the child’s welfare, often with limited resources and support.

 

Full Answer Section

 

 

 

 

Here are four alternative ways to address the problem of teen pregnancy:

  1. Continuing the Pregnancy and Raising the Child: This involves carrying the pregnancy to term and assuming parental responsibilities.

    • Positive Consequences: The teen may feel a sense of fulfillment in raising their child, experience the joys of parenthood, and build a strong family bond. The child has the opportunity to grow up with their biological parent(s).
    • Negative Consequences: The teen’s education and career prospects may be significantly impacted, limiting their future earning potential. Raising a child at a young age can be emotionally and financially overwhelming, leading to stress and potential mental health challenges. The child may face challenges growing up in a potentially unstable environment.
  2. Continuing the Pregnancy and Placing the Child for Adoption: This involves carrying the pregnancy to term and then relinquishing the child to an adoptive family.

    • Positive Consequences: The teen can give their child a chance at a stable and loving home with parents who are prepared to raise them. This can be a selfless act motivated by love for the child. The teen can continue their education and pursue their personal and professional goals with less disruption.
    • Negative Consequences: The teen may experience significant emotional grief and loss from giving up their child. They may struggle with feelings of guilt or regret. The child may experience emotional challenges related to adoption, especially later in life.
  3. Terminating the Pregnancy (Abortion): This involves ending the pregnancy through medical or surgical procedures.

    • Positive Consequences: The teen can avoid the immediate challenges of parenthood and continue their education and personal development. They can make choices about their future and have more time to prepare for parenthood when they are more mature and financially stable.
    • Negative Consequences: The teen may experience emotional distress, guilt, or regret following the abortion. They may face social stigma or judgment from family, friends, or their community, especially based on personal or religious beliefs. There are also potential medical risks, although generally low, associated with the procedure.
  4. Continuing the Pregnancy and Placing the Child in Foster Care: This involves carrying the pregnancy to term and then placing the child in the foster care system.

    • Positive Consequences: The teen does not have the full responsibility of raising a child, while still having the option to maintain some form of contact. The child is cared for and has a safe environment.
    • Negative Consequences: The teen may experience emotional grief and loss. The child may experience instability and emotional challenges associated with the foster care system. The teen may feel guilt for not being able to provide for their child.

My values relevant to this decision include:

  • Autonomy: I believe in the individual’s right to make choices about their own body and future.
  • Compassion: I value empathy and understanding for all parties involved, including the teen, the potential father, the families, and the child.
  • Responsibility: I believe in taking responsibility for one’s actions and making informed decisions.
  • Well-being: I prioritize the physical and emotional well-being of the teen and the child.
  • Education and Opportunity: I believe in the importance of education and access to opportunities for personal and professional growth.

These values can sometimes conflict. For example, the value of autonomy may conflict with the value of responsibility, especially if the teen is not mature enough to fully understand the consequences of their choices. The value of well-being may conflict with societal or familial expectations.

Other people impacted by these decisions include:

  • The potential father of the child
  • The parents and siblings of the teen mother
  • The parents and siblings of the teen father
  • The child (both now and in the future)
  • The community (in terms of support systems and resources)

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