Public spaces and places
Hear this word Public spaces and places
Also known as: Out in public, in public
Image description: Various kinds of public spaces
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What Is It?
Public spaces and public places are where other people are, where other people might enter, or places that are available for all people to use.
Most spaces and places are public spaces and places, including public transportation and parks.
Sexual activities should not be done in public spaces. People who do sexual activities in public spaces can get in trouble with important rules and laws that help to keep the community safe and comfortable in public spaces.
Private spaces and places include your bedroom (if no one else is in the room) and a private bathroom (that is only used by one person at a time and that is not in a public building like a school, library, or office building.)
Sexual activities can be done in specific private spaces or places.
An Example
Janice knows that public places are places like school buildings, community centers, public transportation, outdoor spaces like parks and beaches, and even the internet. Janice knows that in public places, we do things like meet friends and family, learn new things, communicate with people, eat food, shop, and enjoy hobbies.
What to Know
Every glossary word connects to different parts of the Sexuality Wheel. Explore the information below to learn more.
- Some public spaces, such as the beach or swimming pools, have rules where people can wear a bathing suit (like a bikini or swimming shorts) because they are near water and may want to go swimming. However, activities like masturbating and having sex cannot be done in any public places including the beach or swimming pools.
- Most online spaces are considered public spaces or places.
- Bathrooms in public places, such as malls and train stations, are public places.
Think about
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What did you learn about public spaces and places?
To learn more, explore websites, books, and other resources in the Resource Hub or visit other parts of Your Sexual Health Toolkit like our online game, Our Stories, Our Journeys: A Sexual Health Game!
What questions do you have?
Write down or record an audio note with any questions you have to ask someone you trust. You may also find answers to your questions by using websites, books, and other resources in the Resource Hub.