Part I: Linda Valdez; Part II: Ellen Goodman

In the following two-part viewpoint, Linda Valdez and Ellen Goodman argue that adult men take advantage of teenage girls and contribute to the problem of teenage pregnancy. In Part I, Linda Valdez, an editorial columnist, contends that some older men prey on vulnerable young girls who are looking for a male role model. In Part II, Ellen Goodman claims that recent legislative action revived statutory rape laws, which were largely ignored during the sexual revolution and women’s movement. Valdez and Goodman agree that enforcing statutory rape laws can protect young girls from exploitation by older men and reduce the incidence of teenage pregnancy. Goodman is a columnist for the Boston Globe.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. According to Valdez, why do many young girls seek...