Outlines a structured interview process to help school counselors deal with pregnant adolescent students. The process includes developing rapport, aspects of legality and confidentiality, affective empathy, directive versus nondirective approaches, gathering background information and considering alternatives. (JAC)

Reviews court cases dealing with abortion and the counselor's legal responsibility to both the student and parents. Provides practical recommendations on abortion counseling with minors and suggests that counselors urge minors to discuss abortion plans with parents. Counselor should consider local mores and be knowledgeable about appropriate…

Reviews the history and prevalence of teenage pregnancy and parenthood in the United States. Focuses on a somatic reaction called the Couvade Syndrome (CS) whereby expectant fathers experience the physical symptoms of their pregnant partners as it relates to teenage fathers. Notes that the effects of CS can be mitigated by school counselors. (KW)

Compared the self-esteem of adolescent mothers (N=37) to a control group to determine whether adolescent mothers felt there was a cause-effect relationship between their behavior and future consequences. Results indicated that adolescent unwed mothers exhibit low self-esteem and high external locus of control. (LLL)

Identifies and discusses key counseling issues surrounding pregnant younger teens (under age 15). Urges sex education programs for young teens be established. Suggests other strategies which include involving the girl's sexual partner in counseling and increasing community awareness and involvement. (JAC)