The people we spend the most time with naturally influence our decisions, even if we’re unaware.
While sometimes the influence of friends and family can be good, no one should ever be trying to force you to make a pregnancy decision that you don’t want to make.
Whether the pressure from your friends and family is direct or indirect, it is critical to recognize it for what it is and set clear boundaries.
Are My Friends and Family Pressuring Me?
There are two types of pressure: direct and indirect.
You may be experiencing direct pressure if your family and friends are threatening to end the relationship if you don’t have an abortion. This direct pressure can also look like ultimatums, physical threats, or abuse.
Indirect pressure can be more subtle and manifest through actions like silent treatment or expressing their lack of interest in being a part of your life (or your child’s life, if you choose to parent).
Recognizing manipulative behaviors in your friends and family is vital. If the people in your life act this way often, you may not even realize that their actions are inappropriate and crossing a line.
Responding to Your Family and Friends
1. Protect Yourself
If you are in any way experiencing abuse or feel unsafe in a relationship, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-SAFE to make a plan to protect yourself. Never meet up with a friend or family member if you are fearful of them harming you, and if you are ever in immediate danger, call 911 and leave as quickly as possible.
2. Look Inward
If you determine it’s appropriate to do so, you may consider setting a time to talk with loved ones about your pregnancy decision and address the pressure that you’re experiencing.
Before the conversation, looking inward and determining the motivations behind your pregnancy decision can be beneficial. Sharing your heart with your friends and family may help them understand your point of view.
3. Set Clear Boundaries
Begin the conversation with your friends and family by making it clear that this is your decision to make and that you will not be pressured into making another one. You may find it helpful to ask friends and family not to comment on your pregnancy decision unless you ask for their advice.
4. Give Them Time
It can be incredibly difficult to feel like you don’t have the support of those closest to you.
While your friends and family may not change their minds, their initial reactions to your pregnancy might be based on fear. With time, they may begin to respect your decision and seek ways to support you.
Get Help Today
Whether your friends and family are becoming more supportive or you feel you’re facing your pregnancy alone, Palm Beach Women’s Clinic is here to help.
We offer no-cost pregnancy services like pregnancy testing and limited obstetric ultrasounds.
Our trained staff can answer your questions and discuss your options.
You don’t have to navigate this decision alone.
Contact us today for your confidential appointment.
Palm Beach Women’s Clinic does not provide or refer for abortions.