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If I were to see the case of a boy aged ten or eleven…

“If I were to see the case of a boy aged ten or eleven who's intensely erotically attracted toward a man in his twenties or thirties, if the relationship is totally mutual, and the bonding is genuinely totally mutual, then I would not call it pathological in any way.” quote by John Money
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“If I were to see the case of a boy aged ten or eleven who's intensely erotically attracted toward a man in his twenties or thirties, if the relationship is totally mutual, and the bonding is genuinely totally mutual, then I would not call it pathological in any way.”

John Money

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Mutual, consensual adult‑young relationships may not be pathological, challenging conventional norms.

In simple terms: Consensual adult‑young love isn’t always a disorder.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions about age‑gap relationships.

Themes

sexuality consent social norms psychology

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

ethical psychological

When to use this quote

  • counseling
  • legal policy
  • education
  • social services

Key Concepts

gender studies ethical philosophy developmental psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How to ensure true consent in age‑gap relationships?
  • What safeguards protect young individuals?
A Different Perspective

Power imbalances can still exist despite mutual feelings.

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