YOUNGER MEN HAVE “troubling attitudes” towards sexual consent, with 43% of men under 45 agreeing that “sometimes people say no when they want convincing”, according to new research from the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC).

This figure has risen by 8% since January 2024 and is much higher than the general population.

The DRCC said that despite “growing awareness” around sexual consent, the research suggests “regressive narratives about masculinity, sex, and power are not only persisting, but may be gaining ground”.

Sarah Monaghan, manager of the We-Consent campaign at DRCC, said the belief stems from decades of cultural messaging that “casts men as pursuers who must ‘win over’ reluctant partners”.

She said: “We need to unlearn the idea that consent means convincing someone to say yes. Real consent is about mutual enthusiasm and respect – not pressure or persistence.”

‘Unsure’

The survey, which included over 970 adults, also found that 16% of men aged between 18-24 are “unsure” what consent means. This figure is significantly higher than the general population, 93% of whom said they understand issues around lack of consent.

Rachel Morrogh, DRCC Chief, said the lack of understanding around consent among young men is “surprising”, however she said the updated SPHE curriculum, which has a stronger focus on consent education, is still being embedded.

She said the finding could also be seen as a sign younger men have a more nuanced view of consent.

She said: “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.”

The research also found that one in ten men believed that consent can be assumed if there is no “clear objection.”

Nearly one in four men under 45 (23%) said they would “probably keep going” even if they suspected their partner isn’t enjoying a sexual encounter – up 3% since 2024.

Morrogh said this points to a “fundamental misunderstanding of consent as an ongoing process that requires active listening and respect”. She said this attitude risks normalising pressure and boundary violations.

76% of people surveyed felt comfortable discussing consent with friends, but this figure lowered  to 64% for men aged 35-54.

The survey also found that 90% of people agree everyone has the right to change their mind at any point during a sexual encounter, up 2% since 2024.

Education

The DRCC said the research shows a “strong need” for ongoing whole-of-society education on consent and the need for men to play a “central role in changing Ireland’s culture around consent”.

Almost half the people surveyed said they want to know more about consent, but opinion was divided on who should deliver the education.

87% of people, particularly those aged over 55, agreed parents should ensure their child understands consent. Whereas 69% felt consent education should be received in schools. 

Morrogh said education should extend across families, schools, communities, and media.

She added: “Despite persistent myths, the research reveals a clear appetite for learning and growth, emphasising the importance of continued education and open dialogue to foster a culture of enthusiastic and respectful consent.”

If you have been affected by any of the issues mentioned in this article, you can reach out for support through the following helplines:

•  DRCC - 1800 77 8888 (fre, 24-hour helpline) 
•  Samaritans – 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org (suicide, crisis support)
•  Pieta – 1800 247 247 or text HELP to 51444 – (suicide, self-harm)
•  Teenline – 1800 833 634 (for ages 13 to 19)
•  Childline – 1800 66 66 66 (for under 18s)