An Examination of Women's Decision-Making Processes During Unplanned Pregnancy

Abstract

Through the current study the author sought to analyze discourses of women who have experienced an unplanned pregnancy. A qualitative approach was used to gather responses regarding the decision-making process women undergo during this phenomenon. Data showed that persuasive messages from outside sources frequently had a reported impact on the pregnancy option women chose. Often, women would plan on carrying their pregnancy to term initially, yet the persuasive messages they received caused them to change their mind. Women's speculations about the assumed reactions they would receive from others also had an impact on their decision. Implications from this research suggest that women experiencing an unplanned pregnancy may benefit from their family members, significant others, and friends' awareness of the strong impact opinions can have on this decision-making process.