What relationship factor is crucial in second-degree criminal sexual conduct?

In second-degree criminal sexual conduct, one of the critical relationship factors involves the age of the victim. Specifically, the law classifies an offense as second-degree criminal sexual conduct when the victim is less than 16 years old. This is a significant aspect because it reflects the legal recognition of the vulnerability of minors and the potential power imbalance between an adult and a minor. Laws surrounding second-degree criminal sexual conduct are designed to protect younger individuals from exploitation and abuse, making the victim's age a key element in determining the severity of the charge.

The other options involve various relationships or statuses that may factor into different degrees or types of criminal sexual conduct but do not apply specifically to second-degree charges. For example, while the relationship between the suspect and victim can play a role in understanding the context of the crime, it is not as crucial as the age requirement in categorizing the offense as second-degree.