Can I say “no”? How power dynamics hinder consent in university settings

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Reference

Bergeron M, Fethi I, Pelland MA, Savoie L, Baril K, Dion J, Ouellette MH, Paquette G, Paul T, Ponsot AS, Ricci S, Viau C. (2025). Can I say “no”? How power dynamics hinder consent in university settings. Violence Against Women.

Abstract

Teaching assertive sexual consent has been emphasized to combat gender-based and sexual violence in higher education (GBSVHE). However, the relationship between sexual consent and GBSVHE is complex, and teaching “say no” seems insufficient to eradicate these issues. This article examines 52 accounts of individuals who were victims of GBSVHE. The qualitative analysis revealed that power dynamics significantly hindered the acknowledgment of nonconsent in university settings, especially through gendered dynamics, social norms, and authority relationships. These findings support the need to raise awareness of the influence of power dynamics, foster ethical conduct, and promote respectful and egalitarian relationships.

DOI