When I first saw a preview for MTV's summer series "16 and Pregnant" I was completely horrified. I know MTV's "True Life" often explores controversial topics, and has graphic footage, but this seemed especially sad and exploitative to me. That is, until I actually saw an episode.
MTV's documentary-style series featuring young, high school girls coping with their pregnancy and caring for a newborn is nothing short of fascinating. After I saw one episode, I set my DVR to tape all the rest.
All the girls seem to have one thing in common - having a baby seems like an abstract idea, that will never significantly impact their lives. HELLO! Anyone take a health class in school? Anyone?
Where it becomes interesting is watching the girls deal with their families, their boyfriends (or lack there of), the gossip at school, and the changes they have to make in planning for their futures. A cheerleader leaves the squad, an aspiring Air Force member gives up on her dream, couples become engaged, couples move in together . . . its a whole lot of change, all at once.
The show is also captivating because each girl profiled comes from a different part of the country, has a different family situation, living situation, relationship status and level of education. You are never watching the same type of story twice.
My favorite episode centered around Whitney. A baby faced young girl living with her grandmother and her mother, who is also pregnant. Whitney has a wonderful, caring boyfriend, Weston, who has moved in as well and takes care of her, and eventually the baby with great love, care and attention. Did I mention they also have an adorable puppy named Chumpy?
As a twentysomething watching the show, I am well aware of the responsibilties that come with pregnancy and having a baby, but the show is a friendly reminder of the changes required when your life heads down the path toward parenting. For young girls watching the show, I say thank you MTV, for offering an honest and necessary view into what it is truly like to have a baby in high school.
I promise if you watch one episode of this show you will be completely enthralled.
The season finale of MTV's "16 and Pregnant" airs Thursday July 16th at 10:00pm Eastern Time. Miss the start to the season? Not to worry! MTV tends to replay episodes a few times each week.
