Creating Cultures of Consent

“Consent is rooted in all interpersonal exchanges,” advises McGuire, a sexual health educator, in this invaluable debut. Conversations about consent often happen between parents and children, McGuire writes, but the issue is frequently “watered down” with incomplete information. McGuire defines consent (“respect for the dignity, personhood, and well-being of every living thing”) and makes the case that it should be taught both at home and at school: while parents can model good morals, children’s exposure to morality should not “happen in a vacuum.” Consent, the author argues, can be taught as early as 18 months (when a child first understands the word no), and can be “infused” in every subject taught in school. Science class, for instance, could highlight the chemical reactions that occur in the body during decision-making or trauma, while human rights could be addressed in English or social studies classes. A list of key takeaways rounds out each chapter, and McGuire proposes questions to prompt conversations with children (asking them “what movies tell us” about how men and women should behave, for example). McGuire offers a path to create a culture that is respectful of each individual’s autonomy and personal boundaries. Teachers and parents looking to enrich their conversations about consent should give this a look.

* Publishers Weekly *

This volume by McGuire, a sexologist and consent educator with expertise in the areas of sex education, gender identity, and treatment of victims, addresses the need for education programs to include expanded coverage of consent. She argues that consent can only be adequately understood and explained in the context of modeling social change after the cultures of rape-free societies, removing the negative labeling of all activities surrounding sexual interaction and sexual identity. This social change can be accomplished by revising educational programs that address sexuality and sexual identity so that students are prepared to create these needed changes. There is extensive coverage of the history and issues surrounding debate about consent, concluding with curriculum recommendations. The text is clearly written and within the grasp of those with a high-school education. Limited use is made of the results of a survey, with limited attention to research methodology. The book is lightly referenced and does not have an index, limiting its use for research purposes. It will be most suitable for libraries serving the general public or those that seek expanded holdings in sex education, gender identity, or sexual victimization. Recommended.

* Choice Reviews *

Consent education is vast, complex, and emotionally exhausting.” Dr. Laura McGuire has tackled this challenge in her book. Her research, understanding, and professional experience offer much needed information, guidelines, and tools for parents and educators – or literally anyone who cares about the future for our children. McGuire takes the reader through history to the continued work needed in the future.

-- Kathy Tiner-Sewell, PhD, faculty emerita, Fielding Graduate Univer