What if someone pressures me into saying yes?
Consent is not present if someone pressures, pushes, or makes a person feel guilty, afraid, or worn down for saying no. A real yes is given freely, without fear, pressure, manipulation, or consequences. If saying yes feels like the only way to make someone stop asking, avoid conflict, or prevent something bad from happening, a […]
What if I feel unsure instead of a clear yes or no?
Feeling unsure is important information. Consent is not about uncertainty or hesitation—it should feel clear and comfortable. If you feel unsure, confused, or conflicted, that is a sign to pause or say no. It is okay to take time, ask questions, or decide not to move forward at all.
Is it okay to ask questions during a medical exam?
Yes. Asking questions during a medical exam is always okay. Patients have the right to understand what is happening, why something is being done, and what their options are. A medical provider should explain procedures clearly and respectfully and pause if something feels confusing or uncomfortable for a patient.
Who can I talk to at school if something unsafe happens?
If something unsafe or uncomfortable happens at school, it’s okay to talk to a trusted adult. This might include a teacher, school counselor, social worker, nurse, administrator, coach, or another staff member you feel comfortable with. You can also talk to a parent or caregiver, who can help you decide the next steps. You don’t […]
Who should my teen talk to at school if something unsafe happens?
How do I know if a joke has gone too far?
A joke may have gone too far if it makes someone feel uncomfortable, embarrassed, hurt, or singled out. Even if others are laughing, what matters is how it feels to the person on the receiving end. If a joke involves someone’s body, identity, personal experiences, or boundaries—and doesn’t feel okay—it’s no longer just a joke.
What if my friends say something that makes me uncomfortable?
Feeling uncomfortable around friends is important to pay attention to. It’s okay to name how something made you feel, take space, or ask for the conversation to change. Healthy friendships allow room for honesty and respect. If friends dismiss your feelings or continue the behavior, that’s a sign to seek support from someone you trust.
What if I’m pressured to go along with jokes I don’t like?
Feeling pressured to laugh or participate in jokes that don’t feel okay is a sign that a boundary may be crossed. It’s okay to stay quiet, change the subject, or say you’re not comfortable. You don’t have to join in to belong.
How can I stand up for someone else who is being targeted?
Standing up for someone doesn’t always mean confronting something directly. There are many ways to help, and safety should always come first. This can include naming that something isn’t okay, changing the subject to interrupt what’s happening, or checking in with the person afterward to offer support. Sometimes the best option is getting help from […]
What if someone lies about their age?
It is always the responsibility of the older person to make sure the person they are with is legally able to consent. This is intentional. The law is designed to protect young people and to prevent adults who cause harm from using excuses to avoid accountability. If someone genuinely tried to confirm another person’s age […]