<p>I think this is one of those “trend” stories that may not describe an actual trend. I think the real trend is that people are getting more casual about prom dates in general.</p>
<p>The term “cougar” has become popular slang, and using it this way is an attention getter. The truth of the matter is that brothers and other family members have been prom or other special occasion dates for years. However, sending a freshman or younger kid to a high school dance of this sort without proper safeguards firmly in place is a bad idea. The proms in this area have gained a noteriety that make them risky business even for young adults. Many a student have gained a police record, lost the opportunity to “walk” at graduation and gone on probation of sorts due to prom activities. And they are the lucky ones that did not lose their lives or get seriously injured or cause others to be in such situations. Rare, yes, but not rare enough by a long shot.</p>