Policed by Positivity: The Problem with the “Sex-Positive” Label

The term sex positive is everywhere—on social media, in classrooms, even in dating profiles. But is it as inclusive and liberating as it claims to be?In this episode, we dig into the unintended consequences of a term that's often used as a shorthand for open-mindedness, but can actually create new forms of judgment and exclusion. We share personal stories and lived experiences that reveal how the label can oversimplify complex truths, alienate those who’ve experienced harm, and silence voices that don’t fit a certain narrative. What happens when a term meant to fight shame ends up reinforcing it? And what if a better framework is sexual freedom—a more nuanced, inclusive way to talk about consent, pleasure, boundaries, and autonomy without expecting everyone to perform sexuality a certain way?This is a conversation for anyone who's ever felt out of place in “sex positive” spaces, questioned what empowerment really means, or wondered whether it's time to rethink the words we use and the assumptions we make about what being open about sex should look like.If you have a story, thoughts and/or a topic or question for Dr. Sue and Charlie please share your ideas here:  ⁠Show suggestionsTo read Dr. Sue’s take on sex positivity check out this Medium article