Myths about Consent
Myth #1: If someone is aroused, that means they're consenting.
Arousal does not equal consent! Arousal is a physiological response that can't be controlled. It isn't a choice. Sometimes it happens for seemingly no reason at all! This is why someone can be both aroused and not interested in sex. Arousal, wetness, and/or erections should never be taken as a blanket sign of consent.
Myth #2: If someone doesn't stop the other person, that means they're consenting.
This is not consent; this is the assumption of consent! The majority of rape survivors do not attempt to stop or fight against their rapist. There are an infinite amount of reasons why someone wouldn't stop someone else who's hurting them. They could feel pressured or like they *have* to do it. They could be afraid to stop it. They could not know *how* to stop it. They could be physically unable to. They could be experiencing 'tonic immobility'. The list goes on.
Myth #3: Consent can be inferred through body language.
Body language is important aspect of consent, but it should never be solely relied on. Someone might say "yes" to sex but if they're clearly not enthusiastic about it, they might be feeling pressured. Pay attention to your partner. If their eyes are downcast, their mind seems to be somewhere else, they're acting unusual, seeming upset or quiet, they're tensing up...they might've said "yes" when what they're really thinking is "no." Make a point to check in with them.