Prevention Education

Research shows that children and teens are significantly impacted by sexual violence as victims, perpetrators, and bystanders. 

Approximately half of all high school students report experiencing sexual harassment in school, and one third of these students said it was so severe that they did not want to go to school as a result of it. [1]

Teens between the ages of 14 and 17 experience the highest rates of sexual assault compared to all other age groups.

Although many people think of college students as the most at risk for experiencing sexual assault, this does not appear to be the case in Colorado. A 2019 report released by the Bureau of Justice Statistics showed that the majority (55%) of sexual assaults in Colorado were against youth victims ages 17 or younger, even though they make up a smaller portion of the population. Teens between the ages of 14 and 17 experienced the highest rates of sexual assault compared to all other age groups. [2] On top that, nearly ¼ of sexual assaults are perpetrated by someone under the age of 21, with 15% of perpetrators under the age of 17. [3]

At SAVA, we understand that the people most at risk of experiencing and perpetrating violence must be equipped with knowledge, tools, and resources to prevent it and get help if they need it. However, students tell us they are not often learning about sexual violence, consent, and healthy relationships at home. While they might learn about some topics online or in a health lesson, it may not be sufficient to debunk deeply held societal myths and break down problematic norms that lead to sexual violence. It also may not adequately equip students with tools and skills to speak up and help others. 

Young people need accurate, relevant, research-informed, and developmentally appropriate education about sexual violence with supportive adults and peers. This is exactly what SAVA’s prevention programs provide to our community.