On the science of human brain development
Twice now, due to my posting the story about the Lesbian Statutory Rapist, people have called the entire idea of statutory rape into question.
Turns out that while indeed there is no set age for this, there is some science behind it.
We now know the human brain doesn't stop developing for nearly twenty five years after birth, and there is a HUGE cognitive difference in understanding between a fifteen year old and an eighteen year old.
for the popularization.
for the MRI images
for the white paper
There still isn't a "magic number" that divides adulthood from childhood, the individual development of the prefrontal cortex can be complete as early as 17, as late as 25, and the bell curve centers on 21.
But it isn't just "backwater prudes" either, there actually is some science behind it. A 15 year old is incapable of consent for *very real brain development related reasons*.
And I still say a state that tries to turn seduction into rape when sex didn't occur, is ridiculous. But based on this research, so are the states that claim age of consent as young as 12.
Turns out that while indeed there is no set age for this, there is some science behind it.
We now know the human brain doesn't stop developing for nearly twenty five years after birth, and there is a HUGE cognitive difference in understanding between a fifteen year old and an eighteen year old.
for the popularization.
for the MRI images
for the white paper
There still isn't a "magic number" that divides adulthood from childhood, the individual development of the prefrontal cortex can be complete as early as 17, as late as 25, and the bell curve centers on 21.
But it isn't just "backwater prudes" either, there actually is some science behind it. A 15 year old is incapable of consent for *very real brain development related reasons*.
And I still say a state that tries to turn seduction into rape when sex didn't occur, is ridiculous. But based on this research, so are the states that claim age of consent as young as 12.
Comments
I do not believe she deserves any worse punishment than male statutory rapists get. Quite common is probation, no fine, and registering as a sex offender the rest of their life. Which some would say- is worse than jail.
I really must google this story and read what you have read though.
I rather doubt that was Plan A though.