A new study shows that Americans who have seen these MTV shows are more likely to believe that abortion should be legalized. What do YOU think?
Teen Mom and 16 and Pregnant may not only be entertaining, but could be influencing some Americans’ political opinions! Reports on a poll done by the Public Religion Research Institute present some interesting facts behind the correlation between these MTV shows and the abortion issue. What’s your stance?
“Americans who have seen MTV’s shows Teen Mom or 16 and Pregnant are significantly more likely than the general public to say that abortion should be legal in all or most cases (65% vs. 56% of the public) and to say that having an abortion is morally acceptable (48% vs. 40% of the public),” a reporter from Feminists of Choice quotes from the Public Religion Research Institute‘s study.
Although Teen Mom and 16 and Pregnant don’t necessarily discuss the issue of abortion openly and vehemently, the reporter adds that instead, they “may have helped Americans recognize just how difficult a choice parenthood can be — and how vital it is that other choices be accessible as well.”
When other young women or men see these girls and single moms in not-so-ideal situations, struggling to stay afloat while supporting not only themselves but their families, their view on parenthood changes.
But what we need to remember is that as enjoyable as these shows are to watch, it is not as enjoyable for the people you are watching. And with Amber Portwood‘s alleged suicide attempt this week and Jenelle Evans‘ 30 day stint in rehab, this point is truly apparent.
A writer from Slate explains, “The shows themselves have real social benefits, but starring on these shows can be pretty terrible.”
“We hold up ‘fallen’ women as cautionary tales so that others will know not to follow their wanton paths,” she adds. “But being propped up as the fallen woman is never very much fun.”
It’s interesting that Teen Mom is helping promote reproductive rights and views, but we must remember that these girls are sharing their real-life stories and are obviously feeling the effect of sharing their experiences, while dealing with the fame that comes with it.
–Leigh Blickley
More on Amber Portwood at HollyBaby!
rachel s.
Posted at 9:00 PM on June 17, 2011
regardless if you’re for or against the concept of the show, it is creating awareness to the whole topic of being a pregnant teen. I am sure for every 16 year old girl that chooses to have her baby there are 3 that have an abortion. It’s just not broad casted everywhere for all to hear.
Look at the girls on the show, some of them don’t even finish high school, most of them don’t stay in a relationship with the father. It’s not a life they would of chosen for themselves prior to getting pregnant.