All the threads lately about unwanted pregnancy, parenting, custody and what's morally right got me to thinking. I wonder if this question wouldn't help all of us to see these issues a little differently. I'm also curious if those that are parents now would see it differently than those that don't plan on children for some time.
Whether you are or not: Let's say you're a happily married parent of at least one daughter. Shortly after she begins her senior year in high school (17ish?), she comes home and tells you she's pregnant.
You've already done all the right things. You taught her to wait for love. Taught her about birth control. Been good, loving parents.
What would you do? Have her quit school and get a job and raise the child? Talk to the boy's parents? Take her for an abortion? Tell her to have the baby, you'll raise it. Or tell her she needs to decide on her future?
Writing this, I'm struggling with my own response. My 24-year old, thankfully, is not pregnant and although she's with a guy and on a good career path, of no concern in this regard. I have two teen girls at home and although they still think penises are gross (thank Gawd!) I know this will change and know that no matter what they're taught, they will make some unwise decisions in their lifetime and a parent should always be armed.
I tend to think that I'd try to make a decision with her. Talk it out. Hear her feelings and fears, and what she thinks would be right for her. Let her know that I will be there for emotional support whether she opted to have the baby or not, but if she intended to stay in my home with a baby the responsibility and financial burden would be between her and the father.
I'm not sure if that's a weak response, but I'm not totally sure I've weighed everything. I'd be really interested to hear what you guys would do in this scenario.