For teenagers facing abortion, it is a psychological, social, and philosophical
             dilemma that must be encountered. After the Roe v Wade case in which the court
             decided that a woman should have the right to choose, limited abortion rights
             were granted to minors. As a result, numerous states enacted various forms of
             parental notification and consent laws. In most states, the law requires that
             parents of teenagers provide written approval of the minor's decision to
             terminate her pregnancy, or that they be notified by a physician. An on going
             debate has continued regarding the notification of parents on abortion. Many
             psychologists believe that parental notification can have a long-lasting impact
             on the teenager's physical and psychological well being, decision making
             capability, and family relationships. Opponents believe that such notification
             laws are unnecessary because a significant portion of teenagers confide in
             their parents about pregnancy and would seek their advice on pregnancy options
             and alternatives. Therefore, parents are already involved in providing
             emotional and psychological support and assisting her in the decision making
             process. Also, a small percentage of teens are living in abusive and unstable
             situations at home and the laws would cause them to delay seeking termination of
             their pregnancy because of the fear of the parental reaction. On the other
             side, those who believe that parents should be notified argue that if parents
             are notified, they will be there to provide support in dealing with the
             psychological impact of abortion. They also argue that teenagers are not
             experienced at making decisions for themselves and therefore will not make the
             decision that is best for themselves and for their family. Information must be
             obtained on the psychological effects of abortion on teenage mothers before any
             federal law goes into existence on teen abortions.
             Committee approves...