In the 1940's and 50's, if a young woman became pregnant out-of-wedlock, she and the child's father were forced to marry. Teenage girls who refused to marry were forced out of the home so as not to cast shame on the family name. In order to remain a lady, society demanded that young females and their future husbands wait until after they were pronounced "man and wife" before indulging in sexual intercourse. Once the couple was married, the marriage was to be sealed forever. The closeness of nuclear family was a must for survival.
Divorce, like teenage sexuality, was viewed as an immoral act. American culture thrived on values within the family system. Bonding within the nuclear family was necessary for survival. Society instilled in the hearts of parents that marriage is a promise made before God and man, and should not be broken. However, because of changing values and cultural differences, between 1966 and 1976, it appears the divorce rate had doubled. Half of the marriages ended in divorce, which changed many people's lifestyles. Housewives became head of households, working, paying bills, traveling, and raising children on their own, thereby, increasing single-parent families.
The number of female-headed, single-parent family households increased during the 70's and 80's. Hence, the female anthem for this new area..."bringing home the bacon". Many teenagers today are products of these single-parent families. They have experienced the social repercussions of our changing society, for example, child custody and visitation arrangements, child care services, income maintenance, etc.
After becoming exposed and immune to this type of lifestyle, teenage girls felt they could assume the responsibility of raising a family, especially if they could remain in their parent's home. This lifestyle has changed societal values regarding relationships which had deepened their desire to embrace the principle of individual freedom. Since adult women felt they have a right to live the type of lifestyles they desire, this attitude has infected the minds of our young, innocent generation. Teenagers have embraced the belief that they have as much right to their preferred lifestyle as do their parents. Some young girls have exaggerated this "right" to include premarital (and casual) sex, pregnancy, abortions and live-in relationships without parental knowledge. A sadder fact is, that in many cases when parents become knowledgeable, they provide their consent to preserve the "unconditional love" they imagine would be lost without giving approval.
Families, children and society are at risk without competent and compassionate community based agencies. Agencies are needed to bring back the family bond that once existed in this American society that provide quality services to eliminate barriers that hinder personal growth, development and self-awareness while providing education and self-confidence. Reuniting the family and encouraging teenagers to enjoy life as children rather than stepping into the role of their parents could strengthen the cords of love which is the first step to reversing this vicious cycle.
June B. Brown, MHS is an independent consultant with a focus on Not-For-Profit Agency Management, Diversity, Staff Development and Customer Service. June has over 20 years in the human services field and over 15 years in management.
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