A Law Prohibiting Non-Consensual Helping

There should be a law against nonconsensual helping. Helping someone without their consent is a violation of their free choice, dignity, and self-determination. Here is what perpetrators of non-consensual helping say;

You know you’ll like it.

Here, let me show you.

You need me.

You’ll thank me later.

Just trust me.

There should be some exceptions, like when someone’s health or safety are in imminent danger, or when they are temporarily unable to consent for some reason. In these situations it should be OK to help them. But as soon as the exception has passed, consent should again be required.

If we enact this law, people with good intentions will need training on how to put their ego aside and obtain consent before helping. They will need to learn how to disclose their motives for helping, and ask permission first before actually providing any help. They will need training in how to listen, and how to focus on the other person’s capability and dignity.

I anticipate there would be some pushback against a law like this from well-meaning people who need to be needed; you know, the rescuers and saviors. There may be some resistance from those who are afraid of being turned down if they were to ask permission; the perpetual victims. There’s a small contingency who believe they know what’s best for others and don’t need to ask permission because others don’t know what’s best for them. And then there’s all those leaders who were promoted because they are such good fixers, but because they were never trained in how to lead, they just go on fixing everyone else.

I’m not sure where the biggest opposition will come from; consultants, missionaries or politicians.

Compassionate Accountability® recognizes that the most helpful helping is a collaborative process that fosters safety, capability and responsibility. How would a law prohibiting nonconsensual helping affect you? How would it impact you as a leader? Will you share your perspective?

Copyright Next Element Consulting, LLC 2021