Agree question! It is important to understand this

Consent Issues

Sexual consent This has been discussed a lot in recent years. In fact, it’s so important that it’s one of the few new concepts added to high school sex education classes, in addition to the old safe sex conversations. But when it comes to the question of consent, how do we define it? And how do we ask for it?

What is consent?

In the University of Michigan’s Code of Conduct, they succinctly summarize consent as;

“Consent is an unambiguous agreement, outwardly expressed through words or actions that are understood by both parties, to engage in a specific activity. Consent must be voluntary and cannot be obtained through coercion or force. The person who initiates a specific sexual act has the responsibility to obtain consent for that act.”

As with legal clauses, their codes also go on to describe what no Consent. If a person refuses to acknowledge that the other person has said “no” to them, it is not consent. If a person is drunk or under the influence of drugs, it is not consent, regardless of their response. Consenting to sexual activity does not mean consenting to do the same activity in the future.

One of the most overlooked ideas of consent is how someone is dressed, flirting, or even kissing. These are not signs of consent. It doesn’t matter what they are wearing, they can even be naked, but it doesn’t mean consent to anything.

The era of dedication Sexual consent In Australia Varies by stateEven then, there are some caveats, which you can read about in the previous link. Basically, the age of consent is 16 in all states and territories, except South Australia and Tasmania, where it is 17.

INo agree?

Not saying “no” is not consent. If they look unsure, or stay silent, or say “maybe,” that’s not consent. They must clearly and enthusiastically say “yes.”

If someone accepts a ride or a free drink, it doesn’t mean they agree to anything beyond that.

Consent to one sexual activity does not necessarily mean consent to other sexual activities. For example, consent to anal sex does not necessarily mean consent to anal intercourse.

Does that mean consent is required at every step?

Of course. Even within marriage, sexual relations require consent. If you think this is ridiculous, maybe I understand. Data from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (The National Center for Crime Prevention and Delinquency (NCADV) estimates that 10-14% of married women experience marital rape.

How do I ask for consent?

There are many ways to ask for consent. Verbal communication is the most direct option, but long-term relationships may have developed other easy ways to express consent.

Wouldn’t it feel weird or ruin the mood to stop and ask for permission? No, in fact, asking for permission can make things go much more smoothly and open up a higher level of communication between partners. Asking “Can I kiss you?” or “I really want to kiss you” and getting a positive response won’t ruin the magic of a first kiss.

Just like when you’re in bed, maybe you motion for your partner to take off their shirt and ask, “Is this okay?” It won’t ruin the mood. In fact, it will help ease the tension because your partner will know that you understand consent and how they feel, and it’s also a hint to them that you want to move forward because they may be too nervous to ask.

Pay attention to their body language

In addition to verbal consent, pay attention to body language cues. If they agree to the current activity but seem anxious or nervous, step back and ask “is this too fast?” Remember that consent can be given at any stage, but can also be taken back at any time. If someone changes their mind, this is perfectly fine and should be acknowledged. Immediately.

If consent is refused or withdrawn, there should never be any attempt to persuade them to change their mind. Consent given under persuasion or physical or emotional threat is never considered consent, especially in the eyes of the law.

How do I give my consent?

In addition to saying “yes” when asking for consent, there are other ways to let your partner know that you’re ready to take things a step further. Phrases such as “don’t stop,” “keep going,” “faster/harder,” “yeah, that’s it,” and “yeah, but let’s take it slow” are all great ways to convey consent without killing the mood.

However, it is good to know how far you can go. forward Get hot and heavy. Because let’s face it, sometimes our desires take over and cause us to do things we might regret the next day.

Make sure you feel comfortable

As things progress, keep checking in with yourself. Do you feel comfortable? Do you feel safe? Are you physically and emotionally ready? Are you sure they’re not using you for sexual gratification just because you really like them?

In any relationship, whether it’s a long-term one or a one-night stand, healthy communication is an important part of ensuring both parties feel safe and comfortable. We all have the right to be in control of our bodies, and to ensure both parties do so, we need to ask for consent and respect the answer, no matter what it is, even if it’s always changing.

Summary – Consent

Safety and respect are paramount in any sexual relationship. Always ensure that all parties are giving clear, enthusiastic consent. Communication is key; discuss boundaries and desires openly. Consent should be ongoing and can be withdrawn at any time.

Never pressure or coerce your partner. Respect their comfort level and decisions. Trust and mutual respect are the foundation of a healthy sexual relationship. Prioritizing consent creates a safe, supportive environment where everyone feels valued and heard. By valuing and respecting sexual consent, we create a culture of safety and respect for all.