Jenny Knauss` Aug. 11 letter opposes notifying the parents of girls seeking abortions. It`s not this law, but her view of the family, that is
”unrealistic.”
Knauss would deny parents any part in the decision, on the grounds that it`s the girl ”who must live with the results of decisions about her pregnancy.” But that`s true of all decisions involving the girl-so should we abolish all parental authority? The ability to get pregnant doesn`t imply the ability to make responsible choices.
Knauss also says that ”positive images of family relationships” are out of touch with ”realities” that are ”more complex.” She seems to think that ”parental child abuse, neglect and incest” are the rule; in fact, they are the rare exception.
Parental authority is good for children, and for the whole society.
