Crisis Pregnancy Centers, Poverty, and the Expanding Frontiers ofAmerican Abortion Politics

Abstract

Pro‐life “crisis pregnancy centers” are an increasingly important venue for theAmerican abortion conflict, yet scholars know little about them. The increasing concentration of abortion among the poor also potentially heightens their relevance since they aim to reduce abortion through offers of practical support. This article describes this branch of the pro‐life movement, focusing on its approach to poverty and the political factors that may shape it. My national, mixed‐method study of pro‐life pregnancy centers finds that they devote substantial attention to poverty, frequently collaborate with social welfare agencies, and claim that a compassionate, “woman‐centered” approach differentiates them from other pro‐life groups. Despite this, there is little evidence that the development of such centers is related to conflict in the pro‐life movement over poverty.Related ArticlesCarmines,Edward G.,Jessica C.Gerrity, andMichael W.Wagner.2010. “.”Politics & Policy38():1135‐1158.http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2010.00272.x/abstractGainous,Jason,Stephen C.Craig, andMichael D.Martinez.2008. “.”Politics & Policy36():972‐1004.http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2008.00147.x/abstractMedoff,Marshall H.2010. “.”Politics & Policy38():193‐221.http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2010.00235.x/abstractRelated MediaGibbs,Nancy.2007. “.” . February 15.http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1590444,00.htmlFilm Clip.2012. “.” February 18.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lG412TvBTMo