NCJ Number
115725
Journal
Law and Society Review Volume: 22 Issue: 5 Dated: (1988) Pages: 1059-1065
Date Published
1988
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This critique of three youth-related studies focuses on the psychological and social costs of adolescent employment, psychological and legal issues in adolescent abortion, and international perspectives on the family planning rights of minors.
Abstract
'When Teenagers Work: The Psychological and Social Costs of Adolescent Employment' (Greenberger, Steinberg, 1986) argues that adolescents' excessive commitment to earning money may interfere with introspection, active and meaningful engagement with others, and experimentation in a variety of social roles. Extensive part-time employment during the school year may undermine education, lead to a higher level of luxury spending without helping the family, promote some forms of delinquent behavior, and increase cynicism about the pleasures and worth of productive labor. Although this book raises significant issues regarding the impact of adolescents' employment, it is less convincing in proposing alternatives. 'Adolescent Abortion: Psychological and Legal Issues' (Melton, ed., 1986) advises that pregnant minors should get advice early regarding the abortion alternative: receive support for their final decision; and if abortion is the chosen alternative, have the operation completed early rather than late. The clarity of arguments in this book is an important contribution. 'The Adolescent Dilemma: International Perspectives on the Family Planning Rights of Minors' (Rodman and Trost, eds., 1986) examines the rights of minors regarding family planning in various countries. A common theme is that depending on wealth, local conditions, and practices of various agencies, juveniles receive differential treatment in many countries regardless of their legal rights. Despite the books flaws, it provides clear illustrations of societies with superior strategies for dealing with pregnant adolescents, notably Denmark and Sweden. 8 references.