Violence in late adolescence: the role of the family

Abstract

Introduction: Domestic violence seriously affects adolescents aged 17 to 21 years, a stage of identity consolidation and autonomy that increases their vulnerability. Objective: To explain the characteristics, consequences and factors associated with this violence in late adolescence. Material and methods: narrative literature review in PubMed, SciELO, Redalyc, Dialnet and Google Scholar (2012-2023), using descriptors such as domestic violence, late adolescence and their equivalents in English. 21 original documents, reviews and official reports were included. Development: Violence manifests itself in physical, psychological, sexual, and economic forms, with consequences ranging from injuries and headaches to depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, poor school performance, isolation, and dropout. Sociocultural, economic and educational factors promote these behaviors, which are often naturalized and invisible. Conclusions: Violence in late adolescence violates fundamental human rights. Comprehensive prevention strategies are required that strengthen social skills, healthy communication, positive affective bonds, and family-school collaboration from an early age.