Talking about sex and relationships can feel awkward, but it’s really important to understand how to have healthy, respectful interactions. One key topic that often gets overlooked is sexual coercion. Knowing what it is and how to deal with it can help you make safer choices and stand up for yourself and others.
What Is Sexual Coercion?
Sexual coercion happens when someone pressures, manipulates, or forces another person into sexual activity without their clear and enthusiastic consent. This can involve guilt-tripping, threats, intimidation, constant pressure, or using power to control someone. Sometimes, people don’t even realise it’s happening to them, which is why it’s important to talk about it.
Why This Matters
It’s easy to assume you’ll just “know” when something isn’t right, but coercion isn’t always obvious. By understanding what it looks like, you can recognise it and make informed decisions. Talking about this openly can help you build strong, respectful relationships and support friends who might be in tricky situations.
How to Talk About It and Recognise the Signs
- Understand What Consent Really Means Consent isn’t just the absence of a “no” – it’s a clear, ongoing, and enthusiastic “yes.” If someone is unsure, hesitant, or pressured into saying yes, that’s not real consent.
- Recognise Manipulation If someone says things like “If you really loved me, you’d do it” or “Everyone else is doing it,” that’s manipulation. No one should be made to feel guilty or pressured into something they’re uncomfortable with.
- Trust Your Feelings If a situation feels off, listen to your instincts. You never have to do something just to please someone else or avoid an argument.
- Set and Respect Boundaries You are allowed to set boundaries about what you’re comfortable with, and those boundaries should be respected. Likewise, always respect other people’s boundaries, too.
- Talk to Someone You Trust If you or a friend experience sexual coercion, talking to someone you trust—like a parent, teacher, or counsellor—can help you find support and guidance.
Keeping the Conversation Going
This isn’t a one-time thing – keep checking in with yourself and your friends about boundaries and healthy relationships. The more you talk about it, the easier it becomes to recognise and stop coercion when it happens.
Understanding sexual coercion helps you take control of your relationships and make choices that feel right for you. Remember, you never owe anyone anything when it comes to your body, and respect should always be mutual. Talking about consent and boundaries makes for better, healthier relationships for everyone.
The post Talking About Sexual Coercion: What You Need to Know was created by First Light.
