What is Ngā wāhanga whakaaetanga e kore e mārama?

Look for missing verbal agreement, characters who hesitate or freeze, situations involving intoxication or power imbalance, or narrative wording that glosses over a character’s discomfort. If a reader could reasonably interpret that a character didn’t freely agree, the scene may be ambiguous.

Either make consent explicit and enthusiastic (show verbal or clearly affirmative nonverbal consent), or make the lack of consent an intentional and responsibly handled plot point that shows consequences, support for the harmed character, and avoids romanticizing coercion. Consider adding choices in interactive formats that let players refuse without penalty.

Not always, but ambiguity creates uncertainty. Even if eventual consent occurs, leaving the moment unclear can imply pressure or coercion and may be distressing. Clear depiction of consent helps eliminate harmful confusion.

Yes. If your work includes scenes where consent might be unclear or where sexual coercion is depicted, include a content or trigger warning so readers can make informed choices about engaging with the material.