TERMS & DEFINITIONS
SEXUAL HEALTH
The World Health Organization defines sexual health as:
“…a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled.” (WHO, 2006)
PARTNER(S) OR POTENTIAL PARTNER(S)
A person/people with whom one is interested in being sexual or intimate. Does not
imply a specific type of relationship.
SEX OR SEXUAL ACTIVITY
Encompasses physical, emotional, mental and spiritual aspects of consensual interactions. Can include kissing, caressing, massage, oral sex, vaginal sex, anal sex, etc.
STI (SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTION VS. STD (SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASE)
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have had many names over the years, including venereal diseases and STDs. Although STD and STI can be used interchangeably, many people currently use the term STI instead of STD because it is more accurate and carries less stigma. A disease typically refers to infections that cause symptoms and some infections never develop into a disease or have symptoms.
CONSENT
Words or actions that show a knowing and voluntary willingness to engage in mutually agreed-upon sexual activity. Consent cannot be gained by force, intimidation or coercion; by ignoring or acting in spite of objections of another; or by taking advantage of the incapacitation of another where the respondent knows or reasonably should have known of such incapacitation. Minors under the age of 16 cannot legally consent under Georgia law.
Consent is also absent when the activity in question exceeds the scope of consent previously given. Past consent does not imply present or future consent. Silence or an absence of resistance does not imply consent.
Consent can be withdrawn at any time by a party by using clear words or actions.
SEXUAL VIOLENCE
An umbrella term that includes sexual acts engaged without the consent of the other person or when the other person is unable to consent to the activity. Sexual violence includes sexual assault,
rape, battery, domestic violence and stalking. Any member of the UGA community can call the Relationship & Sexual Violence Prevention (RSVP) 24/7 Confidential Hotline at 706-542-7233 (SAFE) to speak with a confidential advocate and seek support if they or someone they know has been impacted.