Introducing a new sexual assault prevention campaign that promotes healthy relationships and sexual health, emphasizing communication and enthusiastic consent.
A Troubling Combination: Young Men Don’t Understand Consent & Young People Are More likely to Experience Sexual Violence
A study from the National Sexual Violence Resource Center found that many young adults are still unclear on what is sexual assault. The researchers surveyed more than 1,200 people of all genders and a wide range of ages about their understanding of sexual assault and consent. One in three men believed that “sexual intercourse where one of the partners is pressured to give their consent” does not constitute assault.
By itself, this is not great news. It becomes even more alarming when we add it to the data we already know about young adults and sexual assault, such as women ages 18 -24 are at an elevated risk of experiencing sexual violence.
Good News, there is a solution! Prevention Education, Healthy Sexuality, and Social Change!
C.A.R.E. (consent: ask, respect, empower) is an innovative social marketing strategy, combining sexual violence prevention and sexual health promotion. Using condoms with consent messaging on the packaging, and accompanying materials that reinforce the message that “YES Means Yes,” C.A.R.E. will expand individual knowledge about sexual violence, encourage healthy relationships, and change community norms around consent.
C.A.R.E. has been pilot tested in diverse communities throughout Louisiana, and is currently undergoing more evaluation in partnership with community health centers, sexual health organizations, colleges and universities, and other groups.
To learn more about C.A.R.E., please visit our website at lafasa.org.
LaFASA News 