Page 1 of 1

Why can kids not consent? (I’m not pro-pedophilia. I just want more resources on this)

Posted: Sat Nov 01, 2025 1:04 pm
by ohmother
Hi! I wanted to ask about why exactly minors cannot consent. I understand they cannot due to most of their activity being impulsive, however, I would like to know other reasons as to why. I myself was groomed online, and I just feel like I know why it was wrong, but I cant put my finger on it. It just made me feel awful

I feel like it should be shared the resources on it, so people can fully grasp the concept that we ourselves cannot consent to adults. It’s important nowadays with the rise of abuse online.

I hope this is the right board to post this in…

Re: Why can kids not consent? (I’m not pro-pedophilia. I just want more resources on this)

Posted: Sat Nov 01, 2025 4:42 pm
by KierC
Hi Ohmother,

First, I am so sorry to hear that someone groomed you online. That is not okay, and I’m so sorry it happened to you. You’re right, minors cannot consent because of where they’re at with brain development and decision-making. It’s also wrong due to power differentials, where adults are physically larger and usually in a position of power or authority that makes interactions with minors non consensual. We also have this advice column that addresses a similar question if you’d like to read some resources: The age of consent… for what, exactly?.

Did that answer your questions?

Re: Why can kids not consent? (I’m not pro-pedophilia. I just want more resources on this)

Posted: Sat Nov 01, 2025 6:48 pm
by ohmother
Yes! Thank you so much