| Summary: | M.A. === The aim of this study was to ascertain which variables affect and influence women when making choices in unplanned pregnancy. In addition, to determine if there were any significant differences between the pregnancy and termination of pregnancy (TOP) group, indicating a specific profile for the respective group. Comparatively little research has been conducted on unplanned pregnancy and abortion within South Africa, as compared with international studies. Future longterm studies are recommended. The research conducted was of a quantitative quasi-experimental research design, wherein the researcher compared the following variables between the two groups: Biographic/demographic data, Personality Styles, perceived Family Environments and Coping Resources. Subjects were not randomly assigned, but selected by the nursing staff and researcher. Statistical analysis reflected that the two groups differed significantly on four variables. The majority of women in the TOP group were found to be the sole earners within their families. Conversely, women in the pregnancy group had more financial resources and lower levels of employment. A lack of sufficient finances was shown to be the strongest determining factor for those electing abortions. A compounding factor, were the nature of the relationships from where conception arose, 71% of the women who elected abortion described difficulties with the partnerin- conception. These included poor relationships due to excessive drinking, extramarital affairs, disinterest in the pregnancy, subsequent abandonment and divorce. Although the two groups had similar profiles in terms of the religious variable, many of the women who elected to remain pregnant, cited religion and/or their beliefs as the primary reason for continuing their pregnancies. In contrast, the TOP group reported a higher level of conflict within their family of origin, compared to the pregnancy group. IV No underlying pathology was found to exist in the group electing terminations, with both groups presenting similar personality styles. The two groups were also found to use comparable coping skills and resources. This research indicates, that most of the women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy based their decisions to abort on external variables; such as their relationships, financial position and religious beliefs. Studies indicate that these women are more likely to experience deleterious consequences, than those who make this decision based on their own personal needs. Many of these women made their decisions based on limitations not preference. This study may be considered to show important findings, as it reflects the need for effective pre- and post-abortion intervention/counselling services, which should be easily accessible to the public. The psychological well-being of the individual is critical for the overall well-being of the community, and ultimately therefore, society.
|
|---|
