The Hidden Crisis: Youth Sexual Violence
The Hidden Crisis: Youth Sexual Violence
Sexual violence is a devastating and critical issue that affects millions of young people, yet it often remains unspoken and hidden from view. The statistics are shocking and reflect the dire reality many youth face:
1 in 9 girls and 1 in 20 boys under the age of 18 report experiencing sexual abuse or assault—according to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network).
82% of all victims under 18 are female—according to RAINN.
1 in 12 teenage children experience sexual dating violence, as revealed by the 2019 CDC Youth Risk Survey.
A startling 20% increase since 2017 shows that 1 in 5 teen girls experienced sexual violence in the past year, according to the same survey.
14% of teen girls have been forced to have sex at some point in their lives—up 27% since 2019, according to the 2021 CDC Youth Risk Survey.
Young women aged 16-19 are four times more likely than the general population to be victims of rape, attempted rape, or sexual assault—according to RAINN.
These numbers are not just statistics—they are real lives affected by trauma and violence. The effects of sexual violence can be long-lasting, leaving deep emotional, physical, and psychological scars. Unfortunately, many victims never come forward or receive the support they need, which makes breaking the cycle of abuse all the more important.
We must take action to change the narrative. It’s essential for parents, educators, and communities to engage in open, honest conversations about consent, boundaries, and healthy relationships. Empowering teens with the knowledge of what constitutes abuse and how to seek help can make all the difference in preventing further harm.
At the Indiana Center for Prevention of Youth Abuse and Suicide, we are dedicated to raising awareness and providing critical education on how to identify, prevent, and respond to youth sexual violence. We offer training programs that equip individuals and communities with the tools to protect vulnerable youth and offer support when it’s needed most.
Together, we can protect our children and ensure that they grow up in a safe and supportive environment. Join us in our mission—register for one of our training programs today and help make a lasting impact on the fight against youth sexual violence.
To learn more, sign up for one of our programs: visit www.indianaprevention.org/training to register!