Sex ed is already predictable for most of us. Most of our memories involve a presentation of questionable images or a banana demonstration while the rest of the world would have laughed their rears off.
In this time and age, sex ed doesn't only mean a coverage of those topics. It is now targeting a new issue. Most sex educators have now taken a new approach. They've been incorporating communication skills to students especially the "yes means yes" rule (affirmative consent). This is a brave method to counteract sexual violence.
The typical sex ed class would engage in issues like the importance of abstinence or basic terminology in bio. Nowadays, a lot of sex educators are taking on discussions about sex including the "yes means yes" rule. There are practicalities and good communication tips that students can take note of. This method defines sex is consensual if and only if both parties are in a soberly state; express their willingness, and conscious enough to go through with the agreement.
Understanding, communication and consent are the vital factors for the yes means yes standard. These factors are being encouraged to take down rape culture.
There are states that took steps in dealing with sexual violence. In 2016, California has set up a yes means yes directive. The state is the very first one to impose such instruction. Michigan, Minnesota, and Oklahoma followed suit. Others have embraced the same method to deal with sexual aggression.
CBS News reports Carlmont High School in Northern California practiced the "yes means yes." A scenario was given to fourteen to fifteen year olds to analyze: "A girl and boy meet at a school dance. The boy drives her home. They kiss. What happens next, over the girl's protests, leaves him confused and her crying, no longer a virgin."
Final thoughts: Health educator Justin Balido stands that this situation was rape under California's new law. "Sexual assault or rape is the choice that the perpetrator makes, and it is never the victim's fault."
He also added, "Here's what affirmative action sounds like: "Maybe" means "no." "OK," "sure,"and "fine" also mean "no." It should be a fine YES.
"If I'm not sure my potential partner is playing hard to get, what can I do? Ask, right?" he continued. "I can ask them."
That's right. When in doubt, simply ask.
