What best defines consent in adult relationships?

• A. Voluntary, informed, ongoing agreement to engage in activity; protects autonomy and safety.
• B. A one-time agreement regardless of context.
• C. An informal understanding; not legally binding.
• D. A verbal yes in the moment only.

Answer: (A)

Consent in adult relationships means that all parties freely and clearly agree to engage in a specific activity, with full awareness of what will happen, and that this agreement can be withdrawn at any time. It is voluntary, informed, and ongoing, requiring capacity to consent, absence of coercion, and ongoing affirmative communication throughout the interaction to protect autonomy and safety. This is why it best fits the concept: it requires explicit, revocable agreement rather than a one-time promise, an informal understanding, or a momentary verbal yes that may not reflect ongoing willingness or boundaries.