Common Misconceptions about Sexual Assault

Myth: If a person does not fight back or say "no", then he/she was not sexually assaulted.

Fact: Any time someone is forced to engage in sexual behavior against their will, they have been sexually assaulted. A person who experiences trauma may freeze or go numb due to shock or fear.  Our brains are programmed to do this as a way of survival.   This is why it is so important to as for a "yes" before engaging in sexual activity instead of assuming you'll hear a "no" if the other person does not want to proceed.

Myth: Most rapes are committed by strangers in the dark.

Fact: Most rapes are committed by someone known to the victim like a family member, friend, coach, co-worker, or intimate partner. About 73% of rape victims knew their assailant according to the 2005 National Crime Victim Survey.

Myth: If a person is visibly intoxicated or passed out due to alcohol or drug use, it is okay to have sex with him/her.

Fact: While it is possible for people who are intoxicated to engage in consensual sexual activity, there are many situations when a person who is severely intoxicated or unconscious is considered defenseless and unable to consent. 

Myth: If he/she had sex with me before, he/she has consented to have sex with me again.

Fact: Previous sexual contact, including previous consent to sex, is not consent for right now. A person has the right to control what happens to their body.  Any non consensual sexual activity with a former or current sexual partner, spouse or boyfriend/girlfriend is considered rape.

Myth: Females often "cry rape" to get even with a male or as an alibi for other behaviors, like missing curfew or cheating. 

Fact: FBI data suggests that unfounded claims of rape are no higher than the false claims of other crimes.

Myth: If a person goes into someone's room or house, they assume the risk of sexual assault. If something happens later, it is their fault since they know better than to go to those places. 

Fact: Just because a person goes into someone's residence doesn't mean he/she is consenting to all or any sexual activity. They may like a person and want to spend time with them, but that doesn't mean they are "asking for it."

Myth: Men can't be raped.

Fact: Sexual assault can happen to anyone. In fact, about 1 in 33 men have been sexually assaulted and many believe this number is much higher, but stigmas surrounding male victimization keep many people from coming forward.

Myth: Most white women are sexually assaulted by Latino or African-American men.

Fact: Research indicates that most perpetrators sexually assault those that are the same race or ethnicity as they are. This belief only further perpetuates racism and stereotypes.