In this Issue: today we share the Consent Conversation Guide for parents and families. We encourage you to have a conversation with your student about consent.
Today I am proud to share what I hope will be a helpful tool for all parents and families: a conversation guide about consent. This guide was developed by subject matter experts from our Office of Wellbeing, Safe Office, and Title IX office, and it is meant to empower you to have an open and frank conversation with your student about what consent is, how to express it, what consent looks and sounds like with others, and how substances affect consent.
Here’s why this conversation is so important:
“Understanding how to ask for and give consent can empower your student to speak clearly about what they do or do not want from an interaction. Students will likely find dating and relationship choices are new or intensified in college. These issues can become even more complex when alcohol is involved. Relationships are an important component of college and young adulthood, but the issues of communication and choice can be complicated.
Students should be guided to develop skills such as clear communication and speaking up for their safety, as well as supporting the choices of others. By following the suggestions provided here, you can help equip your student for the next steps in decision making. The time you spend will strengthen the lines of communication within your family as you support your student’s time at the University.”
It’s important to stress that having a conversation about consent does not mean we are asking your student to be sexually active! Consent can be about a kiss or other activity short of actual sex. And we know that every student and family have their own values where matters of sexuality are concerned. What we want is to help students understand what consent looks like, how to give it, and how to be sure that when the time comes (whenever that may be) that both parties are consenting. You as parents, family members, and loved ones can help reinforce those concepts through this conversation guide.
Whether your student is an incoming first-year student or a current senior, it is never too late to talk about consent. I know I will be using this guide with my own HS senior this summer. Please join me and use it with your students too.
