What is the legal status of sexual consent for individuals aged 12 to 15?

The correct answer is that individuals aged 12 to 15 can legally engage in sexual activity with someone less than 2 years older. This reflects the principle of close-in-age exemptions, often referred to as "Romeo and Juliet" laws in various jurisdictions. These laws are designed to recognize that young people may engage in consensual sexual relationships within a close age range, thereby preventing potential criminalization of consensual activities that occur between individuals who are similar in age and maturity.

In many areas, this approach balances the need to protect minors from exploitation while allowing for normal adolescent relationships. By allowing consent in the context of those close in age (less than 2 years older), the legal framework acknowledges the relational dynamics common among young people, recognizing that the power imbalance or exploitation is less likely when both parties are in a similar developmental stage.

Other options do not align with this legal principle. For instance, allowing sexual relations with anyone or exclusively with individuals older than 15 would not account for the nuances of adolescent relationships. Likewise, stating that they cannot have sex lacks acknowledgment of the legal considerations and norms that exist for young individuals in consensual relationships. Overall, the focus on a reasonable age gap provides a protective yet realistic approach to the complexities surrounding sexual consent