Sexual consent norms in a cross-sectional national sample of the United Kingdom

Willis, M. and Marcantonio, T. L. (2023) Sexual consent norms in a cross-sectional national sample of the United Kingdom. Journal of Public Health, 45(1), pp. 84-90. (doi: 10.1093/pubmed/fdab361) (PMID:34657961) (PMCID:PMC10017077)

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Abstract

Background: Sexual assault is a pervasive problem in the UK, and young women are disproportionately affected. We sought to provide an initial account of sexual consent norms in the UK and whether they differ by gender and age. Method: The present study was a secondary analysis of data collected by the Family Planning Association, which conducted an online survey (N = 2003) to assess experiences with, knowledge of, and attitudes toward consent. The sample represented all regions of the UK and spanned ages 14–55. Results: Definitions of sexual consent endorsed by women and older age groups more closely aligned with the tenets of affirmative consent compared with men and younger age groups. Women and older age groups were also more likely to perceive that various nonverbal cues may be used to interpret sexual consent or refusal and were more supportive of people being able to withdraw their sexual consent. Conclusion: Maladaptive sexual consent norms seemed to be prevalent among men and young people in the UK, which may contribute to young women’s elevated risk of experiencing sexual assault. Our findings support the UK’s recent relationships and sex education curriculum that actively promotes healthy sexual consent norms.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Willis, Dr Malachi
Authors: Willis, M., and Marcantonio, T. L.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU
Journal Name:Journal of Public Health
Publisher:Oxford University Press
ISSN:1741-3842
ISSN (Online):1741-3850
Published Online:16 October 2021
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2021 The Authors
First Published:First published in Journal of Public Health 45(1): 84-90
Publisher Policy:Reproduced under a Creative Commons Licence

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