CDC: Teen pregnancies rates have decreased

Teen pregnancy can damage a young person's life to the point where they need to depend on social services. It can also stunt their development and may lead to dropping out of school in order to support their baby.

However, A new study from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that teen pregnancies are trending downward significantly, CBS News Reports. Teen births are down almost 37 percent from 2009.

However, the CDC reports that only half of teen moms end up obtaining their high school diploma, compared to 90 percent that do not give birth. Moreover, officials estimate that teen pregnancies cost taxpayers nearly $9 billion each year.

Researchers added that education continues to be one of the strongest weapons in combating teen pregnancy. Many schools are incorporating lessons of abstinence and protection. However, parent involvement may be the best tool in preventing teen births.

If parents suspect their child is engaging in risky behavior, they may wish to enroll them into private boarding schools, which aim to help teens learn the dangers of their actions.