minors and consent

Minors are individuals under the age of majority, typically 18 years old, who are often considered incapable of giving informed consent for significant matters, such as medical treatment, legal decisions, and sexual activity. Laws vary by region regarding the age of consent, which defines the minimum age at which a person can legally agree to engage in sexual acts. These laws are in place to protect minors from exploitation and abuse, recognizing that they may lack the emotional and cognitive maturity required to make such decisions responsibly. Understanding these distinctions is important for ensuring the protection of minors' rights and wellbeing.