Pregnancy Care, Reproductive Rights, and Considerations
What's in this post?
- Changes in abortion laws in the US
- Possible implications of those changes
- A new book about Reproduction and Christianity
- Christian views on abortion: Groups that Support or Object
Voting behavior reveals what people value. Essentially, the results of a vote are like data from a massive survey. As a psychologist, my interest in the topic related to years providing psychotherapy and my research in the area of moral psychology. I also care because the decisions may affect the wellbeing of people I know and care about.
The Election
The November 2024 election offered a look at the specific topic of abortion in several US states. Because the US funds health and medical services around the world, the values of Americans can make a difference when it comes to subjects like abortion.
This post provides information on changes in 2024 and references. Please submit corrections along with links to credible sources in the comments.
Key Changes in 2024
In 2024, several states made significant changes to their abortion laws through ballot measures. Here are some key changes:
Arizona: Proposition 139 was approved, creating a "fundamental right" to abortion in the state constitution. This measure prevents the state from interfering with this right before fetal viability unless there is a compelling reason.
Colorado: Amendment 79 was passed, recognizing the right to abortion in the state constitution and prohibiting state and local governments from denying or impeding this right.
Florida: An amendment to limit government interference with abortion (Amendment 4) was proposed but did not pass, falling short of the required 60% support.
Missouri: Amendment 3 was approved, protecting the right to reproductive freedom and ensuring access to abortion services.
Montana: CI-128 was passed, protecting the right to abortion in the state constitution.
Nevada: Question 6 was approved, enshrining the right to abortion in the state constitution.
New York: Proposal 1 was passed, ensuring equal protection of the law for abortion rights.
These changes reflect a broader trend of states taking action to protect or restrict abortion rights following the Supreme Court's 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.
Links to news about the results
These states have abortion laws on the ballot for the 2024 election
Abortion Laws: 7 out of 10 States Voted to Expand Rights. What to Know
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A recent resource on Christianity and Reproductive Rights
Reproduction: Who Controls Women’s Bodies?
Christian Theologies and Psychology
Possible Implications
The 2024 changes to abortion laws may have several implications:
Increased Access in Some States: States like Arizona, Colorado, Missouri, Montana, and Nevada have enshrined the right to abortion in their constitutions, ensuring that access to abortion services is protected and cannot be easily restricted by future legislation.
Legal Clarity: By codifying abortion rights into state constitutions, these states provide clearer legal protections for individuals seeking abortions, reducing the ambiguity that can arise from changing political landscapes.
Political Polarization: The ballot measures highlight the ongoing political polarization around abortion rights. States that passed these measures often did so with significant support, while others, like Florida, saw strong opposition.
Healthcare Coverage: In Colorado, the amendment also requires Medicaid and private health insurers to cover abortion, which could increase access to affordable care for many individuals.
Potential Legal Challenges: States with restrictive abortion laws may face legal challenges as individuals and organizations work to protect and expand access to abortion services. This could lead to ongoing legal battles and further court rulings.
Impact on Healthcare Providers: Healthcare providers in states with protected abortion rights may see an increase in demand for services, requiring adjustments in staffing, resources, and facilities to meet the needs of patients.
Link to a resource
Map shows how abortion measures fared on the ballot in the 2024 election - CBS News
Mental Health Services
There isn't a specific statistic readily available on the exact number of women who consult a counselor or psychotherapist regarding abortion. However, it's known that many women do seek counseling or therapy to navigate the emotional and psychological aspects of their decision. The American Psychological Association (APA) and other mental health organizations often emphasize the importance of providing mental health support to women considering or having had an abortion.
Christian Worldviews
Christianity is the dominant religion in the US. Its leaders are highly active and influential in decisions regarding pregnancy care and abortion.
Objections to Abortion
Data and links
The Roman Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, Oriental Orthodoxy, and most Evangelical Protestant denominations explicitly object to abortion.
Pew Research Center. (2016). Where major religious groups stand on abortion. Retrieved from https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2016/06/21/where-major-religious-groups-stand-on-abortion/
Pew Research Center. (2013). Religious Groups’ Official Positions on Abortion. Retrieved from https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2013/01/16/religious-groups-official-positions-on-abortion/
Christian groups supporting women’s rights
United Church of Christ. (2023). Abortion is healthcare, General Synod says. Retrieved from https://www.ucc.org/abortion-is-healthcare-general-synod-says/
Unitarian Universalist Association. (2022). Abortion Rights. Retrieved from https://www.uua.org/topic/social-justice/reproductive-justice/abortion-rights
Episcopal Church. (n.d.). Reproductive Health and Justice. Retrieved from https://www.episcopalchurch.org/faith-and-action/health-and-justice/reproductive-health-and-justice/
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). (2023). Reproductive Justice. Retrieved from https://www.pcusa.org/justice-and-compassion/health-and-well-being/reproductive-justice/
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