Work

Sexual violence in dating relationships among high school adolescents: a school-based study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: to analyze the prevalence of sexual violence in dating relationships among high school adolescents and its association with socioeconomic and behavioral characteristics and experiences of violence. METHOD: a cross-sectional, analytical study was conducted among 1,238 adolescents aged 14 to 19 years enrolled in public and private schools who were in romantic relationships at the time of the study. Sampling was by clusters and stratification. RESULTS: of the 1,238 adolescents in romantic relationships, 7.8% (95% CI: 6.4-9.4) reported having experienced sexual violence in dating. The prevalence was 9.3% among girls and 5.1% among boys. There was a higher likelihood of sexual violence in dating relationships among non-heterosexual adolescents, those who had ever had sexual intercourse, those who used drugs, and those who had experienced bullying and cyberbullying (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: it is essential that these findings contribute to the strengthening of educational campaigns in schools, addressing not only abusive behaviors but also the importance of consent, mutual respect, and the construction of secure emotional bonds among adolescents.

Source: Revista Latino-Americana de Enfermagem

DOI: 10.1590/1518-8345.8316.4918

Authors: Isaura Barros Alves Pinto, Rita Mafalda Costa Francisco, Franciele Marabotti Costa Leite

Institutions: Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Ministério da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Universidade Católica Portuguesa

Language: English

Topic: Sexual Assault and Victimization Studies

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Gender equality, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa e Inovação do Espírito Santo