Describes two studies of the factors that influence unmarried pregnant adolescents to choose adoption rather than parenthood. Study One examines the effect of perceived parental preference and vocational goals. Study Two examines the effect of perceived parental preference and attained vocational identity status. (FMW)

The Reading (Pennsylvania) School District, in conjunction with local youth and family services, has developed a program to address the needs of unwed mothers. Its goals are to reduce their dropout rate and to provide support services including child care, transportation, counseling, health care, and instruction in parenthood skills.(TE)

Reports on a study to determine how socioeconomic status influences adolescent premarital pregnancy. Finds that African Americans' risk of pregnancy is heightened by both contraceptive behavior and exposure to sexual intercourse. Also finds that the mother's educational level is a powerful inhibitor of pregnancy for both African Americans and…

Presents study results of the influence of adolescent childbearing and marriage on the likelihood of girls completing high school. Reports striking differences by ethnicity. Concludes that the effect of teen marriage on school completion was significant only for whites, with Latinas likely to drop out regardless of pregnancy, and married African…

Postulates a wide dichotomy between the levels of accurate sexual information among teenagers. Asserts that even by age 15-16, some young people lack the essential information to avoid unwanted pregnancy. Suggests a possible separation between boys and girls to address different gender needs. Includes five tables of statistical data. (MJP)

Analysis of data from the High School and Beyond panel study indicates that the willingness to consider single motherhood can be linked to the following: (1) nonconforming behavior; (2) educational opportunity costs; and (3) for whites and Hispanics, depression. This report examined 13,061 females from the 1980 sophomore cohort who responded to…

Contends that, in the public's perception, much of adolescents' trouble today can be traced to deterioration in the quality of family life. Reports on a study of education completion and marriage. Finds that females living with mothers only, who complete their senior year in high school, actually have higher educational attainment and later…