Youth characteristics in relation to their perceptions of sexual consent: a cross-sectional study - Report - MDSpire

Youth characteristics in relation to their perceptions of sexual consent: a cross-sectional study

  • By

  • Cyril Knob

  • Lorraine Chok

  • Romaine Delacrétaz

  • Yara Barrense-Dias

  • Anne- Emmanuelle Ambresin

  • June 22, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Adolescent Traits and Their Views on Sexual Consent

Overview

This study explores the perceptions of sexual consent among adolescents in Switzerland, revealing significant gender and age differences. A portion of participants demonstrated 'implicit' understandings of consent.

Background

Understanding sexual consent is crucial for promoting sexual health and preventing violence among adolescents. This developmental stage is marked by increasing sexual experiences, making it essential to address misconceptions and varying perceptions of consent.

Data Highlights

CharacteristicRelative Risk Ratio (RRR)
Males2.21
Age 14-153.00
Below-average perceived socioeconomic status2.86
Non-standard occupation4.57

Key Findings

  • 15.8% of participants held 'implicit' perceptions of sexual consent.
  • Gender differences were noted in definitions of rape and coercion.
  • Males were more likely to have 'implicit' perceptions compared to females.
  • Younger adolescents (ages 14-15) showed a higher likelihood of 'implicit' perceptions.
  • Adolescents with below-average perceived socioeconomic status were more likely to fall into the 'implicit' group.
  • Non-standard occupational status was associated with a higher risk of 'implicit' consent perceptions.

Clinical Implications

The findings indicate varying perceptions of sexual consent among adolescents.

Conclusion

This study highlights the complexities in adolescents' understanding of sexual consent.

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  10. School-based interventions for sexual education and sexual violence prevention in adolescence: systematic review | Psicologia: Reflexão e Crítica | Springer Nature Link

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