New laws may consider trends in sexual activity

Research has indicated that some American adolescents begin having sex even before they can legally drive a car. While this may raise concerns about teen pregnancy or the risk of spreading sexually transmitted diseases, a report written by Crime Victims' Institute at Sam Houston State University highlighted the growing number of young adults who are being prosecuted for consensual sex acts due to their age.

"Given the changing [social norms] in this country and the increasing acceptance by teenagers of early sexual intimacies, more and more young people are finding themselves facing sexual assault charges, whether or not either partner feels victimized," said Glen Kercher, director of the Crime Victims' Institute.

In the report, the researchers examined laws in different U.S. states regarding sexual activity that involves minors. They explained that statutory rape laws are necessary for protecting young people from offenders, but they suggested that new regulations decriminalize consensual sex acts within close-age relationships.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 46 percent of high school students have engaged in intercourse and 14 percent have had sex with four or more partners.