I just started a relationship with someone two years younger than me.

[KittyPink]

Which isn't the problem. However, it seems like around here it's not sooo.... socially acceptable. (Although, me dating someone two years older as long as I ask them out apparently is fine?) Also, another thing. Other than age of consent, is this legal? As she's 14 and I'm 16.

[Sam W]

Hi Kittypink,

When you say not acceptable, are you referring to that being the norm in your house or in the community in general?

The legality of sex (I don't know of any states where dating with an age gap is illegal) between two minors varies from state to state. It looks like Ohio has a "Romeo and Juliet" law in place that decriminalizes sex between people who are over 13 but under 18.

[KittyPink]

In my community and my mother and stepfather look down upon it. As far as I know the age of consent is 16, but that only applies is the minor is having sex with anyone over the age of 16. If I'm correct?

[Sam W]

The age of consent is, generally, the age in which a person is considered legally able to consent to sex at all. Romeo and Juliet laws are in place to make an exception in that rule so that two minors engaging in consensual sexual behavior are not doing something illegal. Too, the age of consent is 18 in some places.

Given your situation at home, do you sense that this relationship might put you at risk of more restrictions from your mom?

[KittyPink]

For now, it's under wraps. Nobody knows besides who's involved and whoever reads this thread.

[Karyn]

Okay. The only thing to keep in mind then is if you feel at any point like this relationship is going to put your safety at risk or make your home situation worse, then you'll probably need to reevaluate how important the relationship is vs your safety. (Which is a crummy thing to have to think about, I know, and I'm sorry you're in the spot where it's even a possibility. )