Myths about sexual assault prevent many victims from reporting and seeking assistance in working through the trauma of the assault. We must work to discard and dispel these myths.
Myth
Sexual assault survivors were asking for it.
Fact
No one wants to be raped.
Suggesting that someone is responsible for their assault is like blaming someone for being mugged or robbed. The blame always lies with the perpetrator.
Myth
Only women who walk alone at night are sexually assaulted.
Fact
Many assaults occur in familiar places, including the victim’s own home.
Studies show that half of all reported sexual assaults are committed in the victim’s home.
Myth
Sexual assault is an impulsive, uncontrollable act.
Fact
86% of sexual assaults are planned in advance by the offender.
The majority of assaults are premeditated. These acts are not impulsive, they are about power and control.
Myth
Sexual assault only happens between strangers
Fact
In nearly 84% of the sexual assault cases, the survivor and the offender know each other in some way.
In most reported cases, the survivor knows the person who assaulted them. This could be a friend, partner, family member, coworker, or acquaintance.
Myth
You can’t be sexually assaulted if you don’t physically resist.
Fact
Many survivors freeze or are too afraid to fight back, and physical force is not always used.
Studies indicate that in less than 30% of the sexual assault cases, the victims are faced with a weapon or great bodily harm. Consent must be given freely; silence or fear does not equal consent.
Myth
Only young, attractive women are assaulted.
Fact
Sexual assault can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or appearance.
Survivors have included children, elders, men, women, and non-binary individuals — from as young as four months to as old as 92.
Myth
Sexual assault is about sex.
Fact
Sexual assault is an act of violence and control, not desire.
While the method may involve sexual actions, the purpose is to control, harm, or intimidate.
Myth
Men can’t be victims of sexual assault.
Fact
People of all genders can experience sexual violence.
Research shows that 1 in 7 boys will be sexually assaulted before the age of 17, and many adult men are also survivors.
