The data revealed that nearly one in four men under 45 (23%) say they would “probably keep going” during a sexual encounter even if they suspected their partner wasn’t enjoying it.

A new study from the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) has highlighted differing attitudes towards consent in Ireland. The report was launched last Thursday as part of DRCC’s national We-Consent campaign, and shows that while 93% of people say they understand the issue of lack of consent, only 62% believe the wider population shares that understanding. Among men aged 18 to 24, 16% say they are unsure what consent means, making them the least confident age group. The research surveyed a nationally representative sample of 973 adults in Ireland.

Rachel Morrogh, Chief Executive of the DRCC, said:
“Young men aged 18 to 24 are the least confident in their understanding of consent, with 16% unsure what it means. While surprising given their recent school experience, the updated SPHE curriculum with its stronger focus on consent education is still being embedded, so its full impact remains to be seen.”

She added: “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 – such as ongoing consent, non-verbal cues, power dynamics – and may just be more honest about their confusion.”

“This openness signals deeper engagement and real learning. It also highlights the need for ongoing education beyond school, helping young people build confidence as they navigate more complex relationships.”

The data also reveals that nearly one in four men under 45 (23%) say they would “probably keep going” during a sexual encounter even if they suspected their partner wasn’t enjoying it. This figure has increased by 3% since last year’s survey.

Sarah Monaghan, We-Consent Campaign Manager, highlighted another trend from the findings:
“Some 43% of men aged under 45 believe the harmful myth that ‘sometimes people say no when they want convincing.’ Alarmingly, this is up 8% since our last survey in January 2024, showing that regressive narratives about masculinity, sex, and power are not only persisting, but may be gaining ground.”

She continued: “This belief is deeply rooted in decades of cultural messaging, from film and television to advertising and romantic literature, that casts men as pursuers who must persist and ‘win over’ reluctant partners. For generations, the idea that ‘no’ actually means ‘try harder’ has been romanticised, but in reality, it’s a dangerous distortion.”

“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.”

According to the report, 84% of respondents feel comfortable having consent conversations with their partners, though this drops to 66% among men aged 18 to 24. While 69% of respondents say schools should ensure young people understand consent, 87% believe the responsibility also lies with parents.

Despite concerning attitudes, the research suggests an openness to learning, with 47% of the population saying they want to know more about consent.

Morrogh said: “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.”

More information and resources are available at We-Consent.ie. Free and confidential support is available 24 hours a day by calling the National Helpline on 1800 778888.

The We-Consent campaign continues to provide resources and support aimed at fostering that change. The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre encourages anyone seeking help or information to visit We-Consent.ie or call the 24-hour National Helpline at 1800 778888.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, free and confidential support is available at any time by calling 1800 778888 or visiting drcc.ie.

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