On last night's 16 and Pregnant, we witnessed yet another rocky relationship between a teenage girl and her baby's dad. According to Valerie (and Jenelle, and Nikkole), the guys weren't completely there for them even before becoming pregnant. This sad realization got us thinking that maybe the question isn't why Matt, (Jenelle's) Josh and (Nikkole's) Josh haven't stepped up as fathers (yet?), rather whether they were ever capable of showing up for anyone. And why would any young woman have dated them in the first place?
First, let me say that we're in no way judging. I myself spent time chasing after reciprocal love from bad boys with sharp tongues and a habit of disappearing when they were needed most. So did my friends, and their friends. It seems to be a common thread between a ton of us: allowing ourselves to be treated in a way that's 1,000 times less than we deserve. Allowing our hearts to lead the way — instead of our self-respect.
Maybe this is something you've never experienced, and if that's the case, we really hand it to you for being so strong and independent. But we do know by watching the past three episodes of 16 and Pregnant — as well as next week's sneak peek of Chelsea's story — that the issue we're raising isn't uncommon. So, what do you have to say about choosing to stay with guys who aren't supportive, who don't always return your affection? Have you ever been in this place before? Take our poll and sound off in the comments as to whether you relate to this ongoing struggle among many young (and adult) women.