Several factors contribute to this low success rate:
* Life changes: Going to college, starting careers, and moving away geographically often strain relationships.
* Personal growth: Individuals change significantly during this period, and their priorities and goals may diverge.
* Maturity levels: High school relationships are often based on different levels of maturity and emotional intelligence compared to adult relationships.
* External pressures: New social circles and competing priorities can impact the relationship's stability.
In short, while some high school sweethearts do make it, it's considered a rare occurrence.