Denormalizing a historical problem: teen pregnancy, policy, and public health action.
OBJECTIVE
To explore the impact of teen-adult sexual relationships as a public health threat and the effectiveness of statutory rape laws in protecting adolescent children.


METHODS
A comprehensive review of current literature surrounding child abuse, teen pregnancy, and statutory rape was conducted.


RESULTS
Of one million teen girls who become pregnant each year, two-thirds may be the victims of statutory rape. Current laws appear to marginalize the severity of teen- adult sexual relationships, compromising the health and safety of adolescent children.


CONCLUSIONS
Public health recommendations which include public policy change and enforcement, education, and community empowerment are offered.
Kandakai
Tina L
TL
Department of Adult, Counseling, Health, and Vocational Education, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44242-0001, USA. tkandaka@kent.edu
Smith
Leonie C R
LC
D000293:Adolescent; D005260:Female; D006291:Health Policy; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D011253:Pregnancy in Adolescence / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011634:Public Health; D011902:Rape / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*