Consent is an agreement between participants to engage in sexual activity (Hatch, 2017; RAINN, 2018). Consent can be given by words or by actions, as long as those words or actions create clear permission regarding a willingness to engage in the sexual activity. Silence or lack of resistance, in and of itself, does NOT demonstrate consent. Consent must be freely given, reversible, informed, enthusiastic, and specific.
- Consent is Freely Given. Consenting is a choice that you make without pressure, manipulation, or coercion.
- Consent is Reversible. Anyone can change their mind at ANY time. Consent can be revoked, even if you have done it before, even if you are currently in the act.
- Consent is Informed. Everyone has all of the information and understands what they are consenting to.
- Consent is Enthusiastic. If there is uncertainty or hesitation, you should stop. Consent should be enthusiastic and based on mutual desire.
- Consent is Specific. Consenting to one thing or one act, does NOT you have consenting to other things as well. Consent is an on-going process.