ABSTRACT
In the mid-1980s; the Planned Parenthood Federation of America found itself the target of vocal attacks for its pro-choice stance on abortion. Pro-life supporters, those who oppose legal abortion, held public rallies and demonstrated outside abortion clinics, including those of Planned Parenthood. Frequently, protesters harassed patients who attempted to enter clinics; a few individuals even resorted to violent bombings of such institutions in order to make their views on the subject known (Beck, 1985). Meanwhile, a pro-life film, The Silent Scream, depicted an abortion via "ultrasound visualization" and drew widespread media attention (Adler, 1985; Spake, 1985). Public spokespersons like then President Ronald Reagan and New York Archbishop John J. O'Connor also added legitimacy to the pro-life cause ("Ronald Reagan on abortion," 1984; Woodward, 1984).
