Marriage and Family Therapists (MFT) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

A therapist learns that a 14-year-old was sexually active with a 13-year-old. Should this be reported?

1. No, it's within an acceptable age difference

2. Yes, both minors should be reported

3. Only the older minor needs to be reported

4. Report only if there was coercion involved

The correct answer is: No, it's within an acceptable age difference

The requirement for mandatory reporting in cases involving minors revolves around statutes concerning sexual activity, consent, and age differences. In many jurisdictions, there are "Romeo and Juliet" laws that provide legal protections for minors who engage in consensual sexual activity within a certain age range and a limited age difference. The answer indicating that there is no need for reporting due to the acceptable age difference reflects an understanding of these laws. In this scenario, where a 14-year-old and a 13-year-old are involved, their ages typically fall within the tolerated age gap that reduces the likelihood of legal designation of statutory rape. Thus, since their relationship appears to be consensual and within the legal parameters, there is no obligation to report the situation. The reason other options do not apply includes: the suggestion that both minors should be reported overlooks the nuanced laws relating to age differences and consent applicable here. Reporting only the older minor fails to account for the equal legal standing of both parties in similarly aged situations. Additionally, the option to report only in cases of coercion implies that non-coercive consensual encounters require reporting, which is not supported by the legal framework regarding minor sexual activity. Understanding the specific laws around age and consent is essential for determining the obligation to