The relationship between teenage pregnancy and welfare is complex and is discussed later on in this memorandum. However, it is clear that supporters of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996 view out-of-wedlock births, especially those to teenagers, as "both a central cause of welfare dependency and a direct result of the 'culture' it creates". References to out-of-wedlock births and teenage pregnancy exist throughout the legislation including in the Act's statement of purpose and findings.