The unambiguous and willing participation or cooperation in act, behavior or attitude that is commonly understood to be consistent with the exercise of free will.
Consent requires participants who are lawful adults, fully conscious, equally free and legally competent to act, have clearly communicated their willingness, cooperation or permission to participate in the specific sexual activity engaged in, are positive and clear about their desires and are able to cease ongoing consensual activity at any time. Refusal to consent does not have to be verbal; it can be expressed with clear gestures, body language or attitude.
Prior sexual history, by itself, does not constitute consent, nor does consenting to sexual activity with one person imply consent to sexual activity with another person. Getting consent doesn't have to be awkward. Here are some questions you can ask before moving forward:. Sometimes people communicate with actions and body language. These are some non-verbal cues that your partner isn't interested in continuing, and you need to stop:. Consent can be revoked at any time. If you want to stop, say so!
You always have the right to say no, and you can always change your mind at any time, regardless of your past with your partner or what is happening at the moment. Below are some phrases that you can use if you want to stop:.
A person cannot consent if he or she is incapacitated due to drugs or alcohol. You may be able to tell if someone is incapacitated if they:. Sexual activity without consent is sexual misconduct. You must obtain consent every time you engage in any sexual activity.
