Exploring Risk Factors for Dating and Sexual Violence Victimization Among Adolescents: Application of Lifestyle Exposure Theory

• In Event: Developmental Issues in the Study of Victimization

Abstract

Utilizing Hindelang, Gottfredson and Garofalo’s (1978) lifestyle exposure theory (LET), this study examines whether components of LET predict dating and sexual violence among adolescents. Specifically, multivariate logistic regression models were developed to examine the impact that risky behaviors, adult supervision, and sexual activity have on dating and sexual violence victimization among adolescents using data from the 2022 Minnesota Student Survey. Results from a sample of 131,751 of U.S. adolescents show that older students and females were more likely to be victims of dating and sexual violence. In addition, several risky behaviors (i.e., drug use and early sexual experience) increased the risk of dating and sexual violence victimization among adolescents. Current findings are discussed with consideration of existing adolescent victimization scholarship. Recommendations for policy and future areas of research are also discussed.

Authors

• Rhissa Briones Robinson, University of Tampa

• Gabriel Paez, University of Tampa