Dr. Phil Drunk Sex Tweet Deleted After Online Outrage

Self-help guru Dr. Phil McGraw posted a tweet Tuesday that solicited opinions about consent and drunken teen sex, but no sooner deleted the message after outraged users interpreted it as being pro-sexual assault.

"If a girl is drunk, is it OK to have sex with her? Reply yes or no to @drphil #teensaccused," the tweet read.

It was quickly pulled down and a "Dr. Phil" show spokesperson issued a statement.

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"This tweet was intended to evoke discussion leading into a very serious show topic," the statement said. "It was not intended to be taken lightly. It's based upon a recent news story, hence the #teensaccused label."

But the explanation didn’t assuage those offended by McGraw's message. One woman even started a petition on Change.org, which has drawn almost 800 digital signatures, asking McGraw to do a show on rape, sexual assault, and consent.

"Even though he took the tweet down, Dr. Phil should of course admit his error in judgment," the petition reads. "But he needs to go a step further. I am asking Dr. Phil to produce a show that shines a light on survivors of rape and sexual assault and begin a national conversation about the specifics of consent — which includes not raping people while they are drunk or otherwise unable to consent."

Others expressed their outrage on Twitter.

If @DrPhil deletes a tweet, is it okay to repost a screenshot of it? Reply with yes or no. #drphilquestions #fem2 pic.twitter.com/UjhFuaVNvz

— Diane Alston (@dianemoexo) August 20, 2013

.@DrPhil - here's a hint; if you wouldn't want it done to yourself, your child, or your loved ones, IT IS NOT OKAY. Also, you're a moron.

— Sarah H. (@LostInHeadSpace) August 21, 2013

Is it okay if you blame a tweet on some intern you just fired? Don’t bother replying Yes or No to @DrPhil, it’s done. #DrPhilQuestions

— Christopher Sebela (@xtop) August 21, 2013

If @DrPhil doesn't understand how consent works, should anyone listen to him? Reply yes or no to @everetthall #teensaccused

— Everett (@everetthall) August 21, 2013

N. RT @DrPhil If an unlicensed forensic psychologist makes millions off dispensing Cracker Jack advice to people on tv, is it okay? Y or N?

— Nikki Walter (@TurboGrandma) August 21, 2013

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