Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2025
Advisor
Jeannette Manger
Abstract
Teen birth rates in Ohio have been declining; however, due to the potential adverse ramifications of any teen birth, for either the mother or the child, understanding the strongest predictors of teen birth rates in Ohio will allow physicians to preventatively care for their young female population. Our objective was to identify some qualitative factors that best indicate the environment in which a teenage pregnancy is most likely to occur, giving special attention to the difference between rural and urban environments. Relevant data was obtained from County Health Rankings and Roadmaps. This study used qualitative methods and SPSS to analyze the data obtained from County Health Rankings. Data from 2016 and 2023 was used to examine temporal variation. Regression data indicated that the strongest predictors of teen pregnancy in Ohio were socioeconomic status and children in single parent homes. This is contrasted with the weak predictors of access to primary care physicians, high school completion rate, and percentage unemployed. Although many other factors should still be explored to further illustrate the environment in which a teen pregnancy is likely to occur, our data indicates that health care access does not play a significant role in preventing teen pregnancies. As such, to prevent teen pregnancies, physicians should address social determinants of health in their young female patients.
Repository Citation
Klauck, A., Stiefel, M., & Wilson, C. (2025). Income, Education, and Family Structure: Drivers of Teen Pregnancy in Rural and Urban Ohio. Wright State University. Dayton, Ohio.
