Close Topic Options

Abortion Choice At 13. - Page 3

Well, because she is underage it is up to someone else to make the decision. Since she is a ward of the state that means the state. I think the Courts did the right thing. Require counseling to ensure she understands the decision she is making and is competent at 13 to make it. Then, if she is (and she was ruled capable), allow her to make it. I think that is how each abortion involving a "child" mother should be handled. I think parents should be notified, but I think the decision should be ultimately left up to the pregnant person...as long as abortion is legal. I want it to be clear that I don't believe it should be legal, but as long as it is legal, then it should be up to the one who is pregnant to decide.

However because she is so young, it would be irresponsible to simply allow her to make the choice without any consideration of her well being for the long term. Children don't all mature at the same rate. Certainly no one would argue that a 6 year old is capable of making the same decisions as a 26 year old and fully understand the consequences of such decisions. So, it was prudent, in my opinion, for the Court to ensure she had the mental capacity to make such a decision.

Choice Abortion

I agree with you funbiker that she should be offered counselling and support because that is in her best interest, but ultimately the decision should be hers.

I think her interests must come first regardless of what the lawmakers think. At the end of the day this is a decision that will effect her life, not a politicians, nor a servant of the court.

As for the abortion being legal or not. I think it extremely dangerous for abortion to not be legalised because all that will ever achieve is take the practice underground where it is far more dangerous.

Whether we morally agree with abortion or not people are going to do it so I think any responsible society would ensure the practice is safe.

Abortion Choice At 13. History & Civil Business Politics

I teach health education to high school students and we have discussed this case in class several times. Most of the students are worried for her, but at the same time, they understand the consequences of having sex. Most think "that will never happen to me" or "it won't happen on the first time". Surprisingly, most surveyed said they WOULD have abortions if they ever found out they were pregnant while they were still in school. I guess with age, they will realize that ultimately, it is an issue about personal responsibility, and no matter what happens in their lives, they need to take control of it and know that life is all about making decisions. If you make poor choices, you have to be willing to face the consequences.