Hello Marie,

Thanks for writting to AlterHeroes.

I understand that you have recently become attracted to a teacher at your school. From your description, I see that you are torn by your feelings regarding this mutual attraction. He is at least 25 years older than you and you worry that the nature of any non-professional relationship with him would be considered wrong. Despite the age difference and the nature of your professional relationship as student and teacher you are interested in persuing an intimate or romantic relationship with him.

Your concerns are valid and carry both legal and emotional implications. Legally, the concern is whether or not the nature of a romantic relationship with someone older than you could be considered against the law. I advise you to consult your state legislation and the laws pretaining to such relationships. These laws vary between states and nations and are designed to protect its citizens. They carry penalties that both you and your teacher could face if a romantic and/or sexual relationship develops.

Emotionally, the possible outcomes of disclosing your feelings to your teacher vary and also carry consequences that you must weigh. You must consider both the potential drawbacks and advantages of disclosing your feelings to your teacher. Each school and local community is different and you must consider the potential effects of persuing such a relationship in your community.

I advise you to weigh all the emotional and legal implications of opening up to your teacher before doing so. Be patient in making this decision and consult anyone you can trust who could provide you with any further insight into the matter.

sara