PERSONAL READINESSThe Wrong Reasons!

The Wrong Reasons

Some decide to have children based on myths, and misinformation, and faulty logic!

1) To prove adulthood: once someone reaches puberty they are physically capable, but becoming a parent before you can take personal and financial responsibilities of adulthood.

2) To please someone else: People must live life their own way and at a pace comfortable for them.

3) For emotional benefits: Having someone to love and love you back.

4) For respect and status: People pay attention to mothers and fathers. If I become a parent, I’ll be treated with respect.

5) To escape a situation: Problems at home, a bad job etc....

6) Because society expects it: Not all people want to parent. They find other ways to feel fulfilled.

7) To improve a floundering relationship: studies have indicated that bringing a child into a troubled marriage is more likely to put additional strain on the relationship rather than improve it.

8) To be like “ everyone” else: Having friends who are parents doesn’t make it the right choice/time for you.

Examining ReadinessHow do you know when you are ready?

1) Measuring Maturity: Psychological maturity- as the mind and emotions develop, a person moves to higher levels of psychological maturity. We see this in behaviour and attitudes.

Physical maturity: birth of healthy baby depends in part on the mother’s level of physical maturity.

- She won’t be able to handle a pregnancy well unless her body had reached the proper stage of physical growth and development.

2) Thinking about Health: Both parents should be in good physical health Diet, enough sleep Diseases ( inherited?)

3) Condition of Relationship: Should be the condition of a solid relationship Strong, firm, loving relationship