The Range of Sexual Consent

 The problem with the current education about consent is that it ignores the complex pressures that drive women to act against their own interests. 4 Because women are socialized to be accommodating, they may not even be aware that they are doing something that compromises their well-being. True consent requires a clear understanding of the relational context as well as the social and emotional freedom to say no. 

What is Unwanted Consent?

Unwanted sexual consent ranges from smiling at a catcall to giving in to a sexual assault.  Women and girls learn to accept unwanted sexual attention with an uncomfortable smile or a giggle. They understand that sometimes giving in and going along is what girls have to do to keep the peace, get ahead, or stay safe.  They write it off as "not that bad" and learn to keep it to themselves. 

Girls tolerate and normalize a range of sexual offenses:

Scenario 1:  Unwanted sexual attention like catcalls 

Scenario 2: Unwanted and devaluing sexual comments 

Scenario 3: Unwanted sex to keep boys happy

Scenario 4: Blaming themselves for being raped