Young men still displaying fundamental misunderstanding of consent — Rape Crisis Centre
Kenneth Fox
Young men are still displaying a fundamental misunderstanding of consent when it comes to sex.
The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre says there is a need for ongoing sexual education beyond school to help young people navigate complex relationships.
Latest research from the group shows 43 per cent of men under 45 say convincing your partner is sometimes a part of a sexual encounter.
It also shows young men aged 18-24 are the least confident, with 16 per cent unsure what consent means.
Overall, 93 per cent of people in Ireland say they understand issues around lack of consent, yet they believe only 62 per cent of the general population share that understanding.
Almost half (47 per cent) of the population said they want to know more about consent.
Nearly 1 in 4 men under 45 (23 per cent) say they would “probably keep going” even if they suspected their partner is not enjoying a sexual encounter – up 3 per cent since 2024.
A total of 23 per cent agree that “sometimes people say no when they want convincing,” However, 43 per cent of men under 45 hold this belief - up 8 per cent since January 2024.
1 in 10 men agree that “willingness can be assumed because there is no clear objection.”
90 per cent agree everyone has the right to change their mind at any point during a sexual encounter, up 2 per cent since 2024.
76 per cent agree that “I am comfortable having consent conversations with my friends” - which lowers to 64 per cent of men aged 35-54.
87 per cent agree that “It is up to parents to ensure their children understand consent” - a view most strongly held by those over 55.
69 per cent agree that “It is up to schools to ensure young people understand consent” - a view most strongly held by women under 35.
Speaking about the research, Rachel Morrogh, chief executive of Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, said: “Young men aged 18 to 24 are the least confident in their understanding of consent, with 16 per cent unsure what it means.
"While surprising given their recent school experience, the updated SPHE curriculum with its stronger focus on consent education is still being embedded, so its full impact remains to be seen.
“Encouragingly, this uncertainty may reflect greater awareness of the complexity of consent.
"Unlike previous generations who just assumed they understood consent, today’s young men are more exposed to its nuances – such as ongoing consent, non-verbal cues, power dynamics - and may just be more honest about their confusion.
“This openness signals deeper engagement and real learning. It also highlights the need for ongoing education beyond school, helping young people build confidence as they navigate more complex relationships.”
She said the research also highlights concern that nearly one in four men under 45 would “probably keep going” despite suspecting their partner is not enjoying a sexual encounter.
Most worryingly, agreement with this statement has risen by 3 per cent within this age group since 2024’s research.
She said "This points to a fundamental misunderstanding of consent as an ongoing process that requires active listening and respect. Such attitudes risk normalising pressure and boundary violations, which can cause often lifetime harm and trauma."
