Rachel M Macnair

Peace Psychology Perspectives on Abortion Rachel M Macnair

The topic of abortion remains a hotly debated and contentious issue. Too often, partisan politics fuels the debate but prevents a full discussion of facts, particularly those facts on which both sides agree. What might the field of peace psychology offer to this debate? Is there empirical evidence from psychology that will add more light than heat? Can the common conflict-transformation method apply by considering the interests people have in common, not merely hardened positions, so that creative solutions may be found? Can we at least have a full and accurate understanding of what the various perspectives are so as to facilitate a more constructive dialog? We cover: Part 1. The Psychology of Violence against Women: Where Pro-Choice and Pro-Life Conclusions are Almost Indistinguishable (intimate partner violence; coercion or pressure; sexual trafficking and rape; war; and "gendercide" in sex-selection abortions) Part 2. Post-abortion Aftermath (methodology; risk factors; therapy; pro and con on what the aftermath for women is; lost fatherhood; abortion doctors and staff) Part 3. Other Contentious Topics (child abuse; perspectives on specific populations including people with disabilities, racial minorities, people in developing countries, LBGT people, and conscientious objectors; and empirical data on impact of legal regulations) Part 4. The Constructive Program (pregnancy prevention; meeting the needs of pregnant women, new mothers, children and families; transforming the debate over abortion)