15.2

Understanding Consent

• Affirmative consent is direct, verbal, freely given agreement to engage in a sexual activity
• Consent is direct, meaning it clearly communicates agreement
• Consent is verbal, meaning it uses words, not just body language
• Consent is freely given, meaning it is not under pressure or coercion
• Consent can be changed at any time, and a person can withdraw consent even if they initially agreed
• People who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, asleep, or unconscious, or have certain disabilities or disorders, or are younger than the age of consent (16, 17, or 18 years old, depending on the state) cannot give consent

Myths About Consent

• Myth: If someone says yes, it doesn't matter if they look uncomfortable or unsure
• Fact: Looking or sounding uncomfortable does not mean the person consents
• Myth: You can assume your partner gives consent in a romantic relationship
• Fact: People in a romantic relationship have the right to say no to sexual activity at any time
• Myth: Once a person gives consent, it doesn't matter if they say no later on
• Fact: People have the right to change their mind and say no at any time

Sexual Harassment

• Sexual harassment is sexual attention that occurs without consent
• Types of sexual harassment:
  • Verbal:
    • Making sexual statements, questions, or threats
    • Spreading sexual rumors or gossip
    • Making inappropriate or intimidating comments
    • Sharing sexual comments that make people uncomfortable
    • Making sexist or sexual jokes
    • Making sexual comments about someone's body
    • Repeatedly asking someone on a date after they said no
  • Nonverbal:
    • Making sexual gestures
    • Pinching, rubbing, or brushing up against someone in an inappropriate way
    • Staring at a person's body
    • Exposing a person's body
    • Sharing sexual ideas or images
    • Making sexual sounds

Effects of Sexual Harassment

• Sexual harassment can cause depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances
• It can also lead to changes in behavior, such as avoiding usual activities and missing school
• Long-term consequences can include drug and alcohol abuse, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Preventing and Responding to Sexual Harassment

• Documenting the experience can help
• Talking directly to the person harassing you and asking them to stop may be effective
• Reporting the harassment to a supervisor or someone in human resources may be necessary
• Seeking help from a trusted adult or community resource is important

Consequences of Sexual Assault

• Physical health consequences:
  • Bruises, burns, and broken bones
  • Digestive disorders
  • Organ damage
  • Headaches and other frequent headaches
  • Blood clots
  • Urinary tract infections (STIs)
  • Unwanted pregnancy
• Mental and emotional health consequences:
  • Shock or denial
  • Shame or guilt
  • Fear
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Confusion
  • Depression
• Social health consequences:
  • Hesitation to trust other people
  • Conflict in intimate relationships
  • Alienation from friends and family members

Preventing Sexual Assault

• Understanding consent and treating others with respect is key
• Expressing consent clearly and matching nonverbal communication to the message
• Encouraging others to respect boundaries
• Intervening when witnessing or hearing about sexual activity without consent
• Creating a culture that respects people and their consent

Responding to Sexual Assault

• Getting to a safe place immediately

• Calling 911 or the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800-656-4673)

• Seeking medical attention right away

• Reporting the assault to law enforcement

• Avoiding blaming or shaming the person who experienced the assault### Responding to Abuse and Assault

• If someone is experiencing abuse or assault, it's essential to get them to a safe place and seek help immediately.

• The person who commits abuse or assault is always to blame, and the victim is never to blame, regardless of the situation.

Safety Guidelines

• When walking alone, have keys ready before reaching the car, and examine the inside of the car before getting in.
• Lock doors immediately after entering the car, and avoid walking alone at night, especially in areas with poor lighting.
• Stay away from alleys and bushes where someone might hide, and avoid leaving drinks unattended or accepting drinks from untrusted individuals.

Avoiding Risky Situations

• When hanging out with someone new, ensure it's with friends or in a public place, especially during the first few times.
• When riding in a taxi or rideshare, message a friend or trusted adult when reaching the destination or when getting in the car.

Sexual Assault Response

• If someone is experiencing sexual assault, they can try to fight back, making it physically difficult for the attacker to increase the likelihood of giving up.
• Yelling "Fire!" and making a scene can also scare the attacker and give time to get help.
• People may react differently to sexual assault, and it's essential to remember that freezing is a normal response.
• Other normal responses to reduce injury include getting treatment and reporting the assault to law enforcement.

Getting Treatment

• In the event of a sexual assault, get medical attention immediately at a hospital or clinic.
• Call 911 or the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800-656-4673) for help.
• Report the assault to law enforcement, providing detailed information about the time, location, and people involved, and collect evidence from clothes and hair.