back to top What does the age of consent mean?
The age of consent is the age at which a young person is legally able to understand and agree to consensual sex. There are some important laws regarding sex and young people, and these are usually known as the age of consent laws. In most countries, until you reach this age it is illegal for somebody to have sex with you, however old they may be. Sometimes the law is slightly different when the partners are of a similar age, but there is usually still a minimum age below which sex is always illegal.
back to top Why do we have the age of consent?
Although some young people may feel that they are mature enough to engage in a sexual relationship, others may lack the emotional development to deal with this or to feel confident enough to say 'no'. Age of consent laws are there to protect young people from being sexually exploited by adults.
back to top What is the age of consent?
The age of consent varies according to the country and even in different states, and in some places the age of consent is different for boys and for girls. To find out about the age of consent in your country or state, please see our age of consent chart.
back to top Does the age of consent apply to gay men and lesbians?
Yes. In some places there are different age of consent laws for gay men and lesbians, and in other places this type of sexual relationship is illegal. Check our age of consent chart for more detailed information.
back to top What counts as 'sex'?
This, too, is different, depending on the laws in the place where you live. Some places count things like kissing as sexual contact, and other places only count sexual intercourse. You should check out the laws in your state or country.
back to top What is statutory rape?
Statutory rape is the crime that someone can be charged with if they have sex with a person who has not reached the age of consent but who agrees to have sex. Some countries have different names for this. Some states in the US for example call it 'unlawful sexual penetration' or just 'rape'.
back to top What is sexual abuse?
Sexual abuse is the term for an adult using their age or authority over a young person to have any type of sexual contact. There is a difference between this and two young people who are in a consenting relationship. If you are a young person involved in an abusive relationship it is important to talk to someone about this.
If you are worried because you know of a young person who you think is in an abusive sexual relationship, you must think carefully about what would be the right thing to do. Telephone helplines and sources of help in your country will be able to advise you.
