Sexuality is complicated; there are many factors to consider.

Intimacy

• Feeling of closeness
• Kindness, consideration, appreciation and support
• Takes time to build

Self-Determination

• Ability to control one’s decisions without interference
• Ability to make sexual decisions without pressure or influence

Consent

• Willing participation
• Free from intimidation, manipulation or fear
• Active process that involves choice

Trust

• Knowing that your partner is being honest
• Knowing that you can be honest with your partner
• Feeling safe and confident that your partner will respect your decisions

Mutuality

• Shared experience of commitment and intimacy
• Inclusive decision-making process
• Reciprocal and reciprocated

Honesty

• Being truthful about past sexual experiences and current relationship status
• Informing partner of sexually transmitted infections
• Being truthful about relationship intentions

Communication

• Open exchange of information between individuals
• Two-way street -- involves listening and responding
• Open communication that increases connection

Respect

• Acknowledge our own and our partner’s inherent value
• Hold others in high esteem
• Act in a manner that contributes to the well being of everyone

Adapted from the Power and Control Wheel, developed at the Domestic Abuse Intervention Project in Duluth, Minnesota.