Teen Violence and At-Risk Behavior
According to the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) 2008 report, schools were the most common setting for violent victimizations. Among teens ages 12–14, 53% of victimizations occurred at or in school, and for ages 15–17, the rate was 32%. Data from the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) also indicated that the highest risk period for youth ages 12–17 was after school, between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.
In 2002, teens under the age of 18 accounted for 10% of all murder victims, with 36% of those victims being teen girls. Between 1993 and 2003, 57% of offenders of victims ages 12–14, and 40% of offenders of victims ages 15–17, were the victims’ own schoolmates.
Teens living in inner-city communities face even greater risks due to factors such as high poverty rates, single-parent households with limited supervision, and high unemployment. Research also found that teens in single-parent homes faced a 50% higher risk of violence compared to those in two-parent families. The OJJDP identified other risk factors including low levels of supervision, unfamiliarity with community norms, and living in communities with a high concentration of youth.
Teens today are also at risk online. Many are exposed to inappropriate and potentially dangerous experiences, including sexual solicitations, unwanted sexual content, and online harassment. Teen girls are particularly vulnerable, accounting for two-thirds of all online solicitations. These incidents often occur through internet browsing, email, and instant messaging. While some teens disclose these experiences to their parents, many do not—highlighting the importance of parental awareness and involvement. Alarmingly, 63% of online harassment comes from other teens, who may attempt to follow up via phone, mail, or in person.
Teen Challenge Columbus Girls Academy
Teen Challenge Columbus Girls Academy provides a highly structured residential environment that balances academics, spiritual growth, hard work, fun, and fellowship. Situated on a 200-acre campus featuring a lake, boathouse, swimming pool, basketball courts, athletic fields, and a prayer trail, the academy offers a peaceful and engaging setting for growth.
We view each student as a unique and valuable creation of God, worthy of dignity and restoration. Our environment is designed to foster healing through the work of the Holy Spirit, while also incorporating skilled professionals to assist in each student’s growth process. We also equip parents with tools such as internet filtering software and offer ongoing training to help strengthen the parent-child relationship.
Family involvement is a key part of our program. Parents participate in monthly visits and are encouraged to join in parent training and support sessions. These interactions are essential in helping restore family dynamics and in supporting the girl’s journey toward emotional and spiritual wholeness.
Our residential program is staffed 24/7 by qualified individuals committed to the emotional well-being of every student. We offer accredited academics, allowing students to earn a high school diploma or transfer credits back to their home schools. Teen Challenge Columbus Girls Academy provides a well-rounded experience that integrates academics, spiritual life, physical activity, social development, and life skills—preparing girls for a successful and purpose-driven future.
