Sexual Consent in LGB Individuals: Dynamics, Challenges, and Psychological Implications

Abstract

In contemporary discussions about sexual consent, much of the focus has been on its legal and moral dimensions, often within heterosexual frameworks. Sexual consent is not a static or universally understood concept but is shaped by cultural, psychological, and societal influences, including gender norms, past experiences, and the dynamics of power. In the context of gay and lesbian communities, these dynamics can be further complicated by the legacies of heteronormativity, internalised stigma, and societal expectations surrounding sexual roles. This study aims to examine the specific challenges encountered by bisexual, gay and lesbian individuals in establishing, expressing, and interpreting sexual consent.