What Isn’t Consent

THIS. This so many times over!

7 Things You Might Think Are Consent That Aren’t is the most important read of your week. Take the time to read it as many of these things often go overlooked.

The concept of affirmative consent dictates that “yes means yes,” and that only an enthusiastic “yes” constitutes sexual consent. But what is not consent? A lot of the things we’ve been taught indicate sexual consent are actually not adequate ways of determining if your partner is into it or not. In order to make sure a sexual encounter is OK with both partners, consent needs to be vocal, enthusiastic, and continuous.

What else should I know?

Here is a quick rundown of what following behaviors most DO NOT constitute consent.

1. Silence
2. Consent To An Activity At A Different Time
3. Consenting To Something Then Changing Your Mind
4. Consent To Something Else
5. Uninformed Consent
6. Coerced Consent
7. A “Yes” From Someone Incapable Of Giving Consent

For more details, please check out the article. Not only is it informative, but charming. And check in with your close friends about what “consent” really sounds like to them. Sounds like a pretty great learning opportunity, if you ask me.

You’re not looking for a “no.” A “maybe” isn’t going to cut it. You’re looking for a resounding “yes.”

Interested in learning more? Here’s a great video that draws a super charming parallel between consent and making someone a cup of tea.