From a young age, I was exposed to inappropriate content which impacted how I viewed relationships and boundaries. As a preteen and young teen, I engaged in two online relationships where I behaved inappropriately, including requesting inappropriate content and using manipulative tactics. At the time, I didn't understand the problematic nature of my actions. Now that I'm older, I feel extremely guilty and anxious about my past behavior. How can I come to terms with what happened? I want to take responsibility for my actions while also acknowledging that I was dealing with my own issues as a child. I've reached out to both individuals involved, though not all have forgiven me. How can I move forward in a healthy way?

Thank you for your openness in sharing this difficult experience. Your willingness to reflect on your past actions and seek guidance is a positive step towards learning and growth. It's important to acknowledge that early exposure to inappropriate content can profoundly impact a young person's understanding of relationships and boundaries, often leading to harmful behaviors that weren't fully understood at the time.

To those reading who may have been impacted by similar situations, please know that your feelings are valid, and you're not alone. If this topic brings up difficult emotions or memories, it's okay to step away and seek support if needed.

For the individual who submitted this question: The guilt and anxiety you're experiencing are understandable responses to your growing awareness. While it's crucial to hold yourself accountable, it's also important to approach this with self-compassion, recognizing that you were a child grappling with complex issues beyond your full comprehension.

Moving forward involves balancing accountability with personal growth. Consider seeking professional support from a therapist experienced in adolescent issues and trauma. They can provide tools to manage anxiety and guide you through healing. Educating yourself about healthy relationships, consent, and boundaries will be valuable for making better choices in the future.

Your outreach to the individuals involved was a significant step. Continue to respect their boundaries, including their right not to forgive. Focus on using this experience to become a better person and potentially educate others about online safety and healthy relationships, always being mindful of not retraumatizing others.

To all readers: Healing is a journey, and it's okay to struggle and seek help. Whether you've been hurt or have hurt others in the past, your experiences don't define you. With reflection, support, and a commitment to growth, it's possible to move forward in a positive direction while respecting the feelings and experiences of all involved.