Monash academics urge families to normalise conversations on consent and misogyny

Monash University academics Stephanie Wescott and Jane Gilmore have published advice urging Australian families to hold open, ongoing conversations with children about misogyny, consent, and sexual violence. The guidance comes amid recent high-profile alleged incidents involving teenage boys, which have prompted many parents to consider how to approach these complex topics with their children.

The authors cite data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, which indicates that the number of sexual assaults recorded nationally increased by 10% in 2024 compared to 2023. Notably, nearly 30% of all sexual assaults reported to police in 2024 were against girls between the ages of 10 and 17. Wescott and Gilmore argue that children and teenagers need to understand these facts and risks, with the assurance that their parents will support them through any experience.

To facilitate these discussions, the academics recommend that adults use accurate language rather than euphemisms and maintain a non-judgmental tone. They suggest initiating conversations in casual settings, such as in the car or while doing chores, rather than formal sit-downs. This approach aims to prevent children from feeling confronted, allowing them to share what they have read in the media and what their peers are saying.

The authors also advise parents to encourage critical thinking about the role social media companies play in spreading misogynistic content. Research suggests that exposure to such content can lead young people to support misogynistic ideas, so helping them analyse their feeds can reduce potential harm. Parents are encouraged to explicitly reject harmful myths, such as “boys will be boys,” even if children appear to agree with them, as this may be a test of parental reaction.

For younger children, the guidance recommends teaching age-appropriate concepts of bodily autonomy, including respecting boundaries and using correct anatomical words. Consent for little children is framed around physical affection, such as hugs, and sharing toys, rather than sexual matters. The academics note that research suggests parental confidence and knowledge support better emotional regulation during these conversations, and that feminist approaches centring the safety of women and girls help support violence prevention.

The piece concludes that ongoing and open communication is more effective than a single, perfectly crafted conversation. If parents find it impossible to have these discussions, they are advised to find another responsible adult to act as a deputy. The authors emphasise that while discomfort is normal, it should not become an excuse to avoid the topic entirely.