Consent is an essential part of healthy relationships and it’s really important to know what it is and the many ways to spot it. Let’s have a look at the role that gender plays in consent.
Social norms surrounding relationships remain gendered among young people. Gendered stereotypes like this and gender role expectations in various cultures influence the way people think about sexual consent. Can you think of any gender stereotypes that might impact on how we ask different people for consent?
However, it doesn’t matter what gender you are, or who you are attracted to, if you’re planning to do any sexual or intimate activities with another person, then both of you must give consent. Consent should be always clearly communicated – there should be no mystery or doubt. Want to find out more about what consent means, and what it looks like? Check out this resource: Kids Helpline- https://kidshelpline.com.au/teens/issues/what-consent. There is also a video in our Respectful Relationship Program’s consent week which talks specifically about gender and consent.
