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Myths Concerning Sexual Assault
Preventing Sexual Assault

Myths Concerning Sexual Assault

Myths are beliefs that are culturally formulated, socially transmitted, and factually unfounded. Myths about sexual assault deny the violence, hostile and demeaning nature of these crimes and often shift the blame from the assailant to the victim. If we are to eliminate sexual assault, we must replace these myths with the truth.

MYTH: Sexual assault results from an uncontrollable impulsive sexual urge of biological origin.

TRUTH: Sexual assault is motivated by hostility, power, and control. Clinical studies of offenders find that sexual assaults are not motivated by sexual desire or by the desire to meet biological needs. Unlike animals, humans are capable of controlling how they choose to act on or express sexual urges.

MYTH: Sexual assault happens to women who "ask for it" by dressing provocatively.

TRUTH: Sexual assault is not the result of the way a person dresses or acts. It is the assailant who decides to assault another individual. The victim is not an accessory to the crime.

MYTH: When a woman says "no" she means "maybe" or "yes".

TRUTH: When a woman says "no", she means no. "No" means no. Sexual intercourse without consent is rape. A person has the right to control his or her own body.

MYTH: Most sexual assaults are committed by strangers.

TRUTH: Most sexual assaults are committed by someone the victim knows. Studies show that approximately 80% of adult women reporting sexual assaults knew their assailant.

MYTH: Spouses cannot sexually assault each other.

TRUTH: Spouses can and do sexually assault each other. Marital status does not give either partner the right to have sexual intercourse without the other spouse's consent. Marital sexual contact without consent in Virginia is a criminal offense.

Preventing Sexual Assault

Women:
Reduce Your Risk for Sexual Assault
Remember: sexual assault is never your fault, and not every assault can be prevented. However, it is important to keep yourself as safe as possible. These tips can help.

Safety When Going Out:

• Trust your instincts

• Meet at a neutral place: double-date with friends you know well and trust

• Bring enough money for a phone call or to take a cab

• Leave if you feel uncomfortable

• Be aware of the effects of alcohol or other drugs

Safety While Traveling:

• Check the interior of your car before entering

• Keep your gas tank filled

• Keep car doors locked at all times

• If followed, go to a police station or public place

• Stand while waiting for a bus at night; stay alert

• Don't feel you have to talk to strangers while waiting for public transportation

• Be alert; notice who gets off at your stop

Safety At Home:

• Keep your doors and windows locked

• Don't open the door to strangers

• Don't list your address in the phone book

Men:
How You Can Help Prevent Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is never the victim's fault. If someone tells you they've been assaulted, believe them. Men can be sexually assaulted, too.