{if logged_out} {/if}
For teens, regaining a sense of control after a sexual assault or childhood sexual abuse is an important part of recovery. Because of age, teens are not always able to make their own decisions but you can still help them feel empowered.
See more resources for teens.
Statutory rape. The legal age of consent is 16 in Massachusetts. This means that anyone under that age is not legally considered capable of making the decision to have sex. For more information on statutory rape law and related concerns, contact your local rape crisis center.
Parental consent. Teenagers often want to know if they can receive services and treatment without their parents finding out. Policies vary by agency and organization. For more information on individual policies, contact the specific agency, hospital, or police department directly.
Generally, a teenage victim of sexual assault has a right to confidential medical care for an assault including STI/HIV testing and treatment, emergency contraception, and physical care for injuries.
This project was supported by Grant #2009-WF-AX-0014 awarded by the Violence Against Women Grants Office, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety & Security Office of Grants & Research and subgranted to the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center. Points of view in this document are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice or the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety Programs Division.