Silence Hurts
Alcohol Abuse and Violence Against Women

Module 4: Alcohol and Domestic Violence - Page 20 of 23

Adolescent Pregnancy

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Pregnant adolescents (aged 13-17 years) have an elevated risk of experiencing violence at the hand of their partners than pregnant adults.55 There has not been much research focused solely on adolescents and pregnancy, but the health consequences of early pregnancy affect both mother and child.56 Studies have found that roughly one in eight pregnant adolescents reports being physically abused by the father of her child in the previous 12 months. Of these, approximately 40 percent also reported experiencing violence from another family member or relative.57

Pregnant adolescents who are abused by their parents have a higher risk for conditions like stress, depression, and addiction to tobacco, alcohol, and drugs. The damage caused to unborn children by addictive drugs and alcohol (Fetal Alcohol Effects and/or Syndrome) has been well documented in the research. The effects of maternal depression on newborns has not been as well researched and documented. However, a violent environment does not lead to healthy emotional or physical development.58

A major study that examined the relationship between partner abuse and adolescent pregnancy found common characteristics among the male perpetrators. These included:59

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