Experts offer practical steps for parents to address consent and sexual violence with children
Recent high-profile incidents have prompted parents to discuss consent and sexual violence with their children. Researchers advise parents to prepare by gaining accurate knowledge and using direct language rather than euphemisms. They also emphasize the importance of open family conversations where children feel safe to ask questions.
The article draws on Australian data showing that nearly 30 percent of sexual assaults reported to police in 2024 involved girls aged 10 to 17, with overall reported assaults rising 10 percent year over year. These figures underscore why researchers emphasize factual preparation over vague reassurance when parents approach these discussions.
Experts suggest that casual settings—such as car rides or shared chores—can reduce the confrontational feel of formal sit-down talks. Parents are encouraged to ask open questions about what children have seen in the news and what peers have said, while maintaining a calm, nonjudgmental tone that invites continued dialogue rather than shutting it down.
This guidance could meaningfully shift how families approach difficult conversations, potentially increasing children's willingness to disclose concerns and seek support. Parents who feel better equipped may model healthier communication patterns that extend beyond this specific topic. However, the advice's effectiveness may depend on individual family dynamics and cultural contexts, and broader societal change will likely require coordinated efforts across schools, media, and community institutions rather than household conversations alone.