Question from a reader:
What do you generally think about a couple consisting of a 16-year-old high school girl and a 32-year-old man? They love each other and have parental consent, but if the parents also approve of sexual activity, would there be any legal issues? Since this isn’t my situation, I would like to avoid criticism of the parents. I
would like to hear your opinions.

Considering the Couple of a 16-Year-Old High School Girl and a 32-Year-Old Man

Recently, I heard a somewhat surprising story about a couple: a 16-year-old high school girl and a 32-year-old man. They love each other and have parental consent. What is particularly interesting is that the parents also approve of their sexual activity. Hearing this, I want to consider the legal implications and psychological aspects from several perspectives.

Legal Considerations

In Japan, the laws regarding relationships and sexual activity involving minors (under 20) are very strict. Specifically, there are several laws designed to protect minors in relationships that involve sexual activity. Among these, the provisions related to Article 177 of the Penal Code concerning “indecent assault” and “rape” are particularly important. First of all, since the 16-year-old high school girl is under 18, she is legally considered a “minor.” Therefore, if an older man engages in sexual activity with a minor, there are legal precautions that must be taken. Particularly when there is a significant age difference, it can be viewed as problematic socially. However, if there is parental consent, it is unlikely to pose a major legal issue. That said, whether this is socially acceptable is another matter entirely. Given that there is parental consent, it is believed that there are few legal issues; however, the reality is not so simple. The perceptions of those around them, societal norms, and psychological aspects often have a significant impact. What is concerning here is whether the law can adequately protect minors.

Psychological Considerations

Now, the law is just one aspect. From a psychological perspective, the age difference of 16 and 32 likely involves various psychological factors. First, at age 16, one is in puberty and in the process of forming their own identity. Romantic relationships at this age are often based on “admiration” and “adventurousness,” so in couples with a large age gap, the high school girl may feel a sense of “adult charm” from the older man. Additionally, a 32-year-old man may appear to be a reliable figure to the high school girl, drawing on his own experiences. However, it cannot be denied that such relationships can involve an imbalance of power. The differences in knowledge and experience due to the age gap can sometimes become a psychological burden for the high school girl. Reflecting on my own experiences, I remember feeling that adults I admired when I was younger seemed like inhabitants of a different world. Couples with an age difference are often drawn to that allure, but at the same time, I feel that caution is necessary in such relationships. The younger partner is likely to be in an emotionally unstable period, leading to significant internal conflicts.

Social Implications

Furthermore, from a social perspective, there are various potential issues that such couples may face. Reactions from those around them, especially friends, schoolmates, and even parents, can become significant sources of stress for the couple. In particular, the gaze and criticism from peers can impose a considerable psychological burden on the younger partner. Moreover, how to balance the rights of minors that the law should protect with individual freedoms is a challenge for society as a whole. The public recognition of this couple could significantly change perceptions of teenage relationships, necessitating a cautious approach in that regard.

Conclusion

Ultimately, while it seems that there are few legal issues regarding a couple consisting of a 16-year-old high school girl and a 32-year-old man if there is parental consent, there are many complex challenges from social and psychological perspectives. Considering the power imbalance due to the age difference, societal scrutiny, and the psychological growth process of minors, it is essential to carefully consider whether such a relationship can truly be happy. Personally, I want to focus not only on the feelings of love but also on how their relationship evolves and what changes occur in that process. While love that transcends age differences certainly exists, whether it leads to happiness largely depends on the efforts of both individuals and the understanding of those around them. Relationships are always complex, and it is not easy to draw conclusions. What is important is to respect each other’s feelings and understand one another.