Legal frameworks

The age of legal responsibility varies between many countries. In the U.K. for example, it is 10. Most young people rely on families and schools to interpret these laws and to provide moral and regulatory codes for them up to this age. As the young person strikes out more on their own, they must take increasing responsibility to know, interpret and understand these legal frameworks for themselves.

The world is not consistent about its consideration of the legal age of responsibility and offers different rules for different countries and for different aspects of legislation. A young person may reach the age of responsible drinking in the U.K. at 18 but in the U.S. this is 21 years of age.

The emotional desire to fit in with peers combined may lead to underage drinking or use of banned substances.


Right It is true that you can have a bank account from birth.

Wrong  It is true that you can have a bank account from birth.


Right It is true that you can get married at 16 with your parents permission.

Wrong It is true that you can get married at 16 with your parents permission.


Right It is false as you cannot buy fireworks at 16. The minimum age is 18.

Wrong It is false as you cannot buy fireworks at 16. The minimum age is 18.


Right It is true, you can buy cigarettes at 18.

Wrong It is true, you can buy cigarettes at 18.


Right It's true, you can vote at 18.

Wrong It is true, you can vote at 18.


Right It is false, you can't buy a pet at 12. The legal age is 16.

Wrong False, you can't buy a pet at 12. The legal age is 16.


Right It is true, you can change your name at 16.

Wrong True, you can change your name at 16.


Right It is true, you can drink alcohol at home from 5 years of age.

Wrong It's true, you can drink alcohol at home from 5 years of age.


Right It is false, you cannot get a tattoo at 16. The minimum age is 18.

Wrong It's false, you cannot get a tattoo at 16. The minimum age is 18.


Right It is false, you cannot gamble at 16. The minimum age is 18.

Wrong It's false, you cannot gamble at 16. The minimum age is 18 years of age.