Let’s speak up about sexual coercion, a thread:

Consent must be given freely in each and every sexual encounter. Being in a relationship with somebody does not mean that you have automatically consented.

Sexual coercion occurs when somebody non-physically pressures or forces you to engage in sexual activity with them. There are lots of different ways somebody can do this.

They might threaten to publicly reveal your sexuality
i.e. “I’ll tell everybody that you are bisexual”

They could try and wear you down by continually asking
i.e. “Are you sure? What about now?”

They could make you feel like you owe it to them
i.e. “But you’re my girlfriend”

They may say that they’ll spread rumours about you
i.e. “If you don’t do it I’ll tell people you did anyway”

They could threaten your relationship
i.e. “I’ll cheat on you if you don’t”

They might try and normalise their demands
i.e. “But I’m horny”

Your sexual partners should respect your boundaries. You are not obligated to have sex with somebody if you do not want to.

Sexual coercion is not your fault, it is a form of manipulation.

What can I do?

- Clearly discuss your boundaries with your partner
- Try and leave the situation as quickly as possible
- If you feel like you are in immediate danger, call the police or somebody you can trust

Want to know more?

Listen to The Domestic Violence Discussion podcast

Watching Dr. Felicia Kimbrough’s TED Talk called ‘Coercion, Consent and Sexual Violence’