In legal English, consent and assent are often used interchangeably. There is a subtle difference though.
The term assent connotes a positive and voluntary agreement both as a noun and a verb.
“Assent to a proposal of marriage.”
The term consent is neutral in connotation and can apply even when the agreement is given reluctantly.
“The employee consented to the non-compete clause being included in her employment agreement.”
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In the health care arena assent and consent have entirely different meanings than the listed legal definitions.
ASSENT – a minor cosigning for medical treatment, giving permission but since he/she is not of legal age there still requires “consent signature” of adult who has custody of minor/parent or guardian.
CONSENT – agree to medical treatment
Many medical providers are encouraging children and youth with long term health issues to be more proactive in their health care decisions. By co-signing, the young person is “saying” I understand what is happening and agree to it. It does not prevent treatment if the adult has consented – but it sure makes a HUGE difference in patient engagement.