What does sexual consent refer to?

Sexual consent refers to the clear and voluntary agreement between individuals to engage in sexual activity. This agreement must be given freely, without any form of manipulation, coercion, or pressure. When one person agrees to participate in sexual activity with another, it signifies that they understand and accept the nature of that activity, and they maintain the right to withdraw consent at any time. This foundation of mutual respect and autonomy is essential for healthy sexual relationships.

The other options reflect misunderstandings or negative scenarios regarding consent. Coercion implies that one individual is forced or pressured into an act, which directly contradicts the fundamental principle of consent. Assuming consent without communication can lead to serious ethical and legal issues, as true agreement must be explicit and informed. Lastly, while laws may regulate sexual activity and establish guidelines around consent, they do not define what consent is; consent must always be a personal and active decision between the parties involved.