Report details risky behavior in Oklahoma youth

(Tulsa-AP) -- A study shows Oklahoma high school students are far more likely to be physically abused by a boyfriend or girlfriend than their national counterparts.

The new study released today surveyed more than ten thousand Oklahoma middle and high school students.

It also found they're more likely to have engaged in sexual intercourse, as well as come up with a plan for taking their own lives.

The Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services released the report. Officials say it's unclear why so many Oklahoma youth are engaging in risky behavior. Students in grades six through 12 were surveyed during the 1999-2000 school year.

In Oklahoma, 19 percent of high school students surveyed reported being hit, slapped or intentionally harmed in a dating relationship.