DEAR DEIDRE: MY younger cousin keeps asking me questions about sex and I am not sure whether I should be answering her. She contacts me all the time by social media. She said she thinks of me as her big sister and can confide in me. I am 22, she is 14. I said I’d […]
DEAR DEIDRE: MY younger cousin keeps asking me questions about sex and I am not sure whether I should be answering her.
She contacts me all the time by social media. She said she thinks of me as her big sister and can confide in me. I am 22, she is 14.
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I said I’d keep what she says confidential unless she is in immediate danger.
She tells me stuff she has done with boys. I’ve said she shouldn’t have sex until she is 16 and must use protection but I don’t think I can change her views.
I am happy she feels she can turn to me but am I doing the right thing? Her parents would be furious if they knew what she has been up to.
DEIDRE SAYS: It is very positive you are being a support to your cousin.
Tell her you are happy to answer any questions but you are concerned she is putting herself at risk.
You can’t stop her from having sex but you can point her towards people who may be able to help her understand sex and relationships. My e-leaflet Under-Age Sex could help you talk to her.
You can both share your worries with The Mix, which helps under-25s (themix.org.uk).
