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After the shocking news that Britney Spears’ 16-year-old sister is pregnant, their mother has decided to delay publishing her parenting book... probably a good idea considering the shenanigans her daughters get up to.
The news about pregnant Jamie-Lynn, the star of hit TV series, Zoey 101, has caused a lot of concern for parental figures and teachers. This last week, the Spears family has been a controversial discussion at the tip of many tongues, from pre-teens to young adults, parents and grandparents. For adults, the key question has been: how do I talk to my children about this?
Jamie-Lynn’s character on the show was a wholesome young girl, someone generally considered to be a good role model for young girls. With the pregnancy on the horizon, however, her good-girl reputation has been turned on its head. Has her pop-tart sister been too strong of an influence?
Countless articles are being pumped out of the media on how parents should deal with the issue when their kids ask, “Mom, can I have a baby when I’m 16 too?”
Here’s what About.com advised:
Parents should discuss this situation with their children and use it as a way to “check-in” to determine if their child has correct information about sex and the female body. Also, this is a perfect way to reinforce the notion that not teenagers, adults, or even celebrities are immune to the consequences of unprotected sexual intercourse. Although it is unclear as to which age group may be most affected by Jamie Lynn’s unplanned pregnancy, research from the American Psychological Association suggests that middle-school aged girls are the most likely to be impacted – especially if they suffer from a low self-esteem.
Jamie Lynn tells OK! magazine that she is intends to go forward with the pregnancy and will raise the baby in Louisiana. The bigger question - What message will this send to all the girls who look up to Jamie Lynn as a role model? When asked about what message she would like to send to other teens about premarital sex, Jaime Lynn responded, "I definitely don't think it's something you should do; it's better to wait," she says. "But I can't be judgmental because it's a position I put myself in."
(contraception.about)
References: contraception.about
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