Psychologists Favour 16 As Age Of Consent (Press, 31 August 1985)
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Summary: Psychologists Favour 16 As Age Of Consent (Press, 31 August 1985)
The New Zealand Psychological Society has endorsed the proposed age of consent of 16 years in the Homosexual Law Reform Bill, as articulated by the society’s president, Dr Aloma Colgan, during a statement made in Christchurch on 30 August 1985. Dr Colgan remarked that sexual feelings and orientation are typically established before adolescence, and that adult sexual activities usually occur several years after individuals become aware of these feelings and preferences.
She emphasised that the majority of child sexual abuse is perpetrated by heterosexual men rather than homosexual individuals. Dr Colgan pointed out that public concern regarding child abuse and seduction by adults should be more appropriately directed towards existing laws concerning rape, incest, and the indecent assault of children. She asserted that the proposed legal changes concerning homosexuality would neither enhance nor diminish the protection available to children.
Dr Colgan’s remarks were made following a successful joint conference held by the Australian and New Zealand psychological societies, marking the first time the two organisations convened together. Mr Neville Blampied, one of the conference organisers, highlighted the event's success, noting that it attracted 425 registrants, approximately 75 more than anticipated. This conference is seen as a potential catalyst for increased collaboration between the two societies in the future. Many participants are considering attending the Australian society’s next conference in Townsville the following year.
A notable session at the conference was a symposium on peace, which underscored the New Zealand Psychological Society's stance against nuclear armaments that it had adopted three years prior. This topic was presented as a significant aspect of the conference discussions, reaffirming the society’s commitment to addressing pertinent social issues.
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