We have spent countless hours focused on manners, education, the perils of drugs. We teach them about stranger-danger and making good choices. But recently I've become aware that we must speak to our children about boundaries between the sexes. And what it means to not be a danger to someone else. To that end, we are making an effort to teach our sons about affirmative consent. We explain that the onus is on them to explicitly ask if their partner consents. And we tell them that a shrug or a smile or a sigh won't suffice. They have to hear yes.
In Roxane Gay's "Not That Bad: Dispatches from Rape Culture," the author emphasizes the importance of educating children about boundaries, especially regarding interactions between genders. While many parents teach about manners and safety, Gay points out that discussions about affirmative consent are crucial. Teaching sons to seek explicit consent before any physical interaction helps establish a culture of respect and clarity in relationships.
Gay highlights the necessity of moving beyond vague cues. Simple gestures like a shrug or a smile do not equate to consent; rather, children must understand the importance of a clear and affirmative "yes." By instilling these values, parents can help ensure that future generations cultivate healthier and more respectful dynamics between individuals.
