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Activity Quote by Peggy Orenstein

“Saying "yes" [to sexual activity] is a pretty low baseline for sexual experience and I wanted to write about what was happening to girls after "yes."” quote by Peggy Orenstein
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“Saying "yes" [to sexual activity] is a pretty low baseline for sexual experience and I wanted to write about what was happening to girls after "yes."”

Peggy Orenstein

About This Quote

Source Article: The New York Times, "The Aftermath of Consent", 2015

Examines how a simple affirmative answer can mask deeper power dynamics and lasting impacts on young women.

In simple terms: Consent is complex, not just a word.

Key Takeaway

Listen to women's experiences beyond a "yes".

Themes

gender sexuality power dynamics consent youth culture

Mood

reflective empathetic

Type

social educational

When to use this quote

  • education curricula
  • sexual health programs
  • parental guidance
  • media representation

Key Concepts

feminist theory psychology of consent social norms

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does true consent look like in practice?
  • How can we support survivors of coercive encounters?
A Different Perspective

Societal attitudes may downplay the seriousness of post‑consent experiences.

2.4 out of 5 (5 ratings)

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