Laws & Policies / Question
Published: September 30, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I'm 17 yrs old and in my senior year of high school. I just turned 17 at the end of December, so legally I can't move out until next December. However, I feel that my emotional health depends on me moving out in May. Can I move out legally after I've graduated high school, if I'm attending college? I'm gay and my parents are Mormon. Therefore, we NEVER get along. They said that they were going to throw me out after graduation, and now they said that they won't let me. I need to know if I can move out.
Signed: Need To Move Out
Dear Need To Move Out,
Legally you cannot leave home until you are 18 years old. Although you may be attending college, your residence with your parents is still considered your permanent address. Until the age of 18 you are still considered a minor and remain under the jurisdiction of your parents.
College can give you an idea (somewhat) of living on your own. Your college dorm is not your permanent residence and when vacations and summer breaks arrive where will you stay? Living on your own is a very tempting opportunity but before you make a move, carefully consider all the details. You will need a job, a place to live and the means and skills to support yourself. If you cut yourself off emotionally from your parents, will you also suffer financial repercussions? Do you have any other friends or family willing to support you, financially and/or emotionally? Leaving home on bad terms typically causes hurt feelings and resentment.
TeenHealthFX recommends that you talk to your parents and to discuss this situation if at all possible. If you absolutely cannot, find someone you trust to talk to, like a counselor, teacher or relative to help give you support and some guidance. They may even help mediate a discussion between you and your parents. Family therapy would also benefit your family by helping everyone learn to get along better and be more accepting of each other.
This is a difficult time for you and your parents as this new and uncomfortable territory. The following are some resources for you and for your parents:
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PFLAG for parents and friends of gays and lesbians
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Gay and Lesbian Hotline 888.THE.GLNH or their website for people who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender or questioning.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
The reality of excessive interest rates and fees that often accompany credit card use for teens, can put youngsters in a position where they are losing out on admission to graduate school, getting a job, or renting an apartment because of damaged credit history.
