|
MYTH |
FACT |
|
The primary motive for sexual
assault is sexual. People who commit sexual assault do not have any
other outlet for their sexual needs. |
The
major motive for sexual assault is power – to overpower and control
another person. Many offenders may suffer from sexual dysfunction during
a sexual assault. However, 3 out of 5 are in consenting sexual
relationships. Rape is not about sex. It is sexualized violence not
violent sex. This myth also allows us to shift the blame to the victim
and not the offender. |
|
Sexual assault is provoked by the
victim. |
This mistaken belief holds that people “ask” to be sexually assaulted
through their actions or dress. In fact, studies demonstrate that
seventy-one percent (71%) of sexual assaults are planned in advance,
making irrelevant the survivor’s demeanor or apparel at the time of the
sexual assault. It is preposterous to believe that someone would ask for
or enjoy a physical attach during which they risk contracting venereal
disease, pregnancy, injury or even death. |
|
Sexual assault is an impulsive act.
|
Seventy-one percent
(71%) of all sexual assault are planned. The offender intends to
sexually assault someone or a specific someone. They often take
advantage of a person who is in a vulnerable situation.
|
|
Sexual assault occurs only among
strangers. |
Over fifty percent
(50%) of all sexual assaults involve acquaintances or friends. In
fourteen percent (14%) of the cases reported, the offender is a close
personal friend, a member of the family, or a friend of the family. A
person is less likely to report sexual assault by a friend or relative.
|
|
Anyone can prevent sexual assault
if they really want to. |
This myth asserts that
no one can be forced to have sex. In fact, since nearly ninety percent
of all sexual assaults involve threats of physical harm or the actual
use of physical force, it follows that a person might submit to a sexual
assault to prevent more severe bodily injury or death. In addition, most
women generally are not brought up to be physically aggressive and are
not as physically strong as most men, which makes them more vulnerable
to a sexual assault. |
|
Offenders are “perverts”.
|
This myth assumes that
only “sick” or “insane” people are offenders and, again, that obtaining
sex is the primary motive for sexual assault. Believing this myth may
cause us to expect the offender to be a marked person with particular
characteristics. If the accused appears and acts normal, we will not
believe that they could have committed the crime. |
