Dear Sparky (cute name!),

Local Laws Vary

Check out the answers to "What is statutory rape, and why?"

Unfortunately, I can't speak to the legality of a 19 year old dating a 15 year old. You should ask your school's counselor or another adult that you trust for more information regarding this. I believe the laws differ for different areas.

15 and 19 Aren't That Great a Difference

Wrong! A teen year is like a decade – it's a huge difference.

If you're wondering if it's generally OK for you to date him if you don't have any sort of sexual relationship, I don't see why not. Although you're 15 and probably still in high school, he's only about a year or two out of high school. That's not THAT big of an age difference. If he was turning 29 instead of 19, I'd have a different answer.

Practice Following Your Instincts

Anyway, it's up to you to decide if this is the right thing for you. This is an excellent time for you to practice following your own instincts.

• If you feel that you're uncomfortable with the age difference, stop dating him.
  
  
• If you feel that you're doing things you wouldn't normally do just so he'll like you, stop dating him.
  
  
• If you feel he's pressuring you into things you don't want, stop dating him.
  
  

• I agree! If you both are just having a great time together then it shouldn't hurt anyone.

• If you're having a great time, and he's having a great time, and everything seems wholesome and right, congratulations!

I'm sure you'll do what's right, Sparky.

– Mo