• Older teens who may not feel confident of their ability to attract and maintain a relationship with an equal may turn to someone younger as a way to bolster self-esteem.
• Men/older boys who have rigid, stereotyped views of masculinity may see the "conquest" of a young girl as an affirmation of their masculinity.
• Older teens and adults who have control issues may find it easier to control someone who is younger.
• Adults who have not been successful in their relationships with other adults may turn to preying on young teens.
• Victims of child sexual abuse may abuse younger teens.
• While men are the predominant offenders, women may engage in coercive or exploited exploitive relationships with teens as well. They are more likely to use flattery or bribery than threats or overt force.

What can you do?
Talk to him. Tell him it's not right and unhealthy. Tell him that healthy relationships should be based on equality. Tell him about the law or this website. Let him know how you feel about this. And if you have to, go to the police.