Frequency of dating and sexual violence in 26 Kentucky high schools in 2010

Teen dating and sexual violence poses a serious public health problem due to the mental and physical health burden. According to data from the Kentucky 2007 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 11% of students reported they had ever been physically forced to have sexual intercourse. This presentation will focus on the continuum of sexual violence, from sexual harassment to forced sexual intercourse. From January-April 2010, we conducted a population-based survey of approximately 28,000 students in 26 high schools throughout Kentucky. Surveys were administered during school hours and all students present were invited to participate. Preliminary results, based on a small subsample of schools, indicated a high level of sexual harassment: 36% were repeatedly asked out on a date or to hookup even though they said no. Approximately 15% reported unwanted sex due to threats or pressure, 11% reported unwanted sex when drunk or on drugs, and 6% were physically forced to have sex. Better understanding of the continuum of violence experienced by high school students will allow us to improve our violence prevention efforts.