#41. Age and Sexual Contact

This Conversation Will Help You…

1. Know what is considered underage
2. Express reasons why having sex with underage people is wrong
3. Say what that would look like in their life (if they are the older or younger person) and why it’s not okay

Think About This First

• Washington State has tiered laws about sexual contact among young people. Generally, the "age of consent" is 16 - however, there are laws relating to younger people as well which you may want to familiarize yourself with.
•  This card has information you may want to refer to during the converstion

Having the Conversation

Start here:

What is the age when someone can consent to have sex, legally?

What do you think the age should be? Do you agree or disagree? Why or why not?  

Continue:

Let’s look at this card that has more information about the laws.

Why is it not okay for adults to have sex with underage adolescents?

Besides the fact that it’s illegal, what are other reasons why it’s wrong?

What kinds of privileges do older people get in our society? (driving,  etc)

How can these privileges be used to coerce or manipulate younger people into doing what they want?

Keep Talking:

What if you met someone who was a lot older than you?

What if they were ten years older than you?

Would it be okay for you to be with them and have sex with them?

What if you just dated?

Can we talk about why this is or is not okay?