Integrity-Myths about Rape

There are several myths surrounding the issue of rape and sexual assault--most to take the blame off of the offender and place it on the victim. It is our duty to become educated so that we can tell others the truth.

Common myths about rape

It can't happen to me.
The truth is that rape can happen to anybody. Perpetrators do not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, age, or ability. Infants and the elderly have been abused, as has men, lesbians/gays, peple with disabilites, and people from every economic, social, religious, or ethnic background. According to the National Victim Center and the Center for Crime Victims Treatment and Research, 680,000 American women were raped in 1990. This amounts to 1.3 each minute, 1,871 each day, and 56,916 each month. This does not include children and men, which when added could easily double the amount raped each year.
Because she wore low-cut or tight fitting clothes, went out alone, stayed out late, used drugs, kissed me, etc, she asked for it.
No one asks to be raped. As well, no ones behavior justfies or excuses the crime. People have a right to feel safe at all times from sexual perpetration. The offender, not the victim, needs to be held accountable for the crime.
Most sexual assaults are commited by strangers at night in out-of-the-way places.
So many times we see the typical rape scenerio in movies as follows: The young, attractive woman is out late at night, alone. The offender, a stranger, jumps her from behind the bushes, leaving only her shoe behind. The truth is that we are four times as more likely to be assaulted by someone we trust; a friend, family member, a boyfriend or even our spouse. Also, we are 50% more likely to be assaulted in our home or apartment and as many occur during the day.
Most offenders are African-American men.
This myth is rooted in the racist history of our country. However, 90% of sexual assaults occur between people of the same ethnic or racial background.
Women frequently "cry rape."
The FBI reports that only 2% of all rapes reported turn out to be false accusations. Women do not lie about rape.
Only women can be raped.
As mentioned before, anyone can be raped. The FBI estimates that one out of ten men are the victims of sexual assault. Other studies show that between one out of every four to one out of every seven male children are sexually abused.
The best way for survivors to get over a sexual assault is to act like it didn't happen, to put it behind them, get on with their lives and be "normal" again.
No one should be forced to talk about their experience, either publicily or privatly, until they are ready to speak out. However, talking about it does seem to be the most effective way to begin the healing process. All survivors have a right to support and valdation from friends, family and service providers, no matter where they are in their individual healing process or how long ago the assault occured.

Adapted from the National Coalition Against Sexual Assault homepage. Thank you.

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