‘There is no option; we do not have the option to say no’: sexual consent among Ecuadorian adolescents and young women

Sexual consent is central to healthy sexual relationships and helps prevent sexual violence. Despite its importance, however, the subject has rarely been studied in Ecuador, a country where rates of sexual violence against young women are particularly high. This study explored adolescents’ and young women’s views on sexual consent. Using a qualitative approach, four focus groups were conducted with 30 participants aged between 15 and 24 years from public and private schools and universities in the Ecuadorian cities of Cuenca and Azogues. Data were subjected to thematic analysis. The findings suggest is a lack of good quality sexuality education in the formal education system. This means that adolescent girls and young women do not know how to communicate consent assertively. Based on traditional gender roles, they are expected to be available to satisfy male desires, often giving false consent and minimising their emotions, failing to recognise violence for what it is. Study findings results highlight the need for a better understanding of sexual consent. This would make women more aware of their own sexual desires and how to communicate them, which could help to prevent violence.