An 18-year-old who is dating her biological father has opened up about what the rest of their family thinks about their relationship.
Speaking to The Cut under anonymity, the woman shared details about how she reconnected with her father after 12 years apart and how their relationship quickly evolved into something more than familial.
“It was so weird and confusing,” she recalled. “I was seeing my dad for the first time in forever, but it was also like, ‘He’s so good-looking!’ And then I was like, ‘What the hell are you thinking? What is wrong with you?’”
She admitted that part of her initial attraction stemmed from the connection they developed online before meeting in person.
The 18-year-old is dating her father. Credit: Peter Dazeley/Getty
She said: “I saw him as my dad, but then part of me was like, ‘I’m meeting this guy I’ve been talking to over the internet, connecting with, and I find him attractive.’”
While relationships like this are extremely rare and widely condemned, some research suggests that feelings of attraction between estranged blood relatives are not entirely unheard of.
Experts refer to this phenomenon as Genetic Sexual Attraction (GSA), where relatives who meet as adults may confuse the natural pull of familial bonds with romantic feelings.
According to The Guardian, studies estimate that about 50% of reunions between long-lost relatives result in some form of attraction, though research in this area remains limited.
The woman described how the relationship transitioned to a physical one, beginning after they spent several nights sharing a room. She said the turning point came on the fourth night when they woke up “spooning”.
The couple are seeking ways to get married. Credit: Elizabeth Fernandez/Getty
Despite the taboo and legal implications of their relationship, she dismissed concerns about coercion or abuse.
“When you are 18, you know what you want,” she asserted. “You’re an adult under the law, and you’re able to consent. I can take care of myself. I don’t need protection. If I were in a situation where I needed to get out, I would. I’m not afraid to defend myself.”
The couple is now engaged, although they cannot legally marry due to incest laws. They are planning to relocate to New Jersey, where consensual adult incest is not illegal.
The couple has even discussed having children. Addressing the potential genetic risks of incestuous reproduction, she compared it to other hereditary health risks.
“I wouldn’t risk having a kid if I thought it would be harmful,” she stated. “I’ve done my research.”
When asked whether they would reveal the truth to their future children, she responded: “We’ve decided that most likely we won’t. I don’t want to give them any problems.”
Currently, only a select few people are aware of their relationship, including the woman’s best friend and her father’s parents, who reportedly support the union.
The father and daughter have discussed having kids together. Credit: d3sign/Getty
However, she has chosen to keep it a secret from her mother, fearing legal repercussions.
The story has reignited debates surrounding GSA and the legality of such relationships. Although New Jersey may allow consensual adult incest, societal condemnation and ethical concerns remain significant barriers.
The 18-year-old plans to disclose the relationship to her mother after the move. “Once I’m there, I’ll tell everyone,” she said. “I’ll call my mom and let her know that we are in love and we are having children. If she wants to see her grandkids.”