Promoting Sexual Consent Principles in the Sexual and Reproductive Health Care of Adolescents and Young Adults

Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Mutual sexual consent is an essential component of healthy sexual relationships. The ability to communicate with a partner about any physical/sexual contact, including kissing, touching, or sexual intercourse, is necessary for a mutually respectful relationship. Healthcare clinicians (HCCs) and health education programs should stress the importance of sexual consent and recognize the frequency of nonconsensual sexual activity and sexual violence among adolescents and young adults (AYAs). HCCs and those who work with youth need to be aware of the cultural context and norms along with legal parameters for sexual consent in their geographic area. Infrastructure support, including programs to develop clinician skills, time for thoughtful and sensitive discussions about sexual consent, and community referral options, is necessary for HCCs to be able to have the skills and time to review the important aspects of sexual consent with their patients. Research is needed to advance evidence-based practices to prevent nonconsensual sexual contact among AYAs and to effectively disseminate and implement best practices.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)205-209
Number of pages5
JournalJournal of Adolescent Health
Volume73
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2023

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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