KIDS COUNT Indicator Brief: Reducing the Teen Birth Rate

By the Annie E. Casey Foundation

July 1, 2009

Summary

Teens who become parents, and the children they bear, are more likely to experience poverty, poor health, abuse and neglect and other adverse effects that impact them throughout their lives. This brief outlines six strategies to help prevent teen pregnancy.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

A Renewed Focus On Teen Pregnancy Can Help Reduce The Teen Birth Rate

Despite decades of declining birth rates among teens ages 15 to 19, the U.S. still has the highest rate of teen pregnancy among developed countries; non-white teens are disproportionately affected. Common-sense strategies that engage teens, parents and communities in addressing the causes and consequences of teen sexual behavior and risk-taking can help reduce the birth rate. Such strategies also focus on reducing the adverse, lifelong consequences for teen parents and their children,

Findings & Stats

Statements & Quotations