Sexual assault myths, stereotypes perpetuate problem

  • Published
  • By Sexual Assault Response Office
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Many myths and stereotypes surround sexual assault. Despite continuing education, many of these myths have been around for years. Some of them include: 

- Strangers commit most sexual assaults. 

In fact, 70 percent of victims usually know their assailant. Dr. Anna Salter, a noted psychologist on sex offenders says it best - offenders very rarely sneak into a house in the middle of the night - more often they come through the front door in the day and is someone the victim already knows. 

- All sexual assault victims will report the crime immediately to the police. 

If they don't, then they must have changed their minds after it happened, wanted revenge, or didn't want to look like they were sexually active. It does happen, however, statistics are low; 2 to 5 percent. It's difficult to know how frequently rape occurs because of its low reporting rate. It is a crime with unique characteristics in part because victims find it not easy to talk about. There is also a difference between an unfounded allegation (not enough evidence) and false allegation (non-believable victim). 

- If a person goes to someone's room or house or goes to a bar, they assume the risk of sexual assault. 

This "assumption of risk" wrongfully places the responsibility on the victim. Doing any of the above mentioned actions is not a blanket consent. Men and women frequently interpret verbal and nonverbal cues of sexual intent differently. Men and women can overestimate someone's interest in them as sexual partners based on friendliness, attentiveness and dress. 

- It's not sexual assault if it happens after drinking or taking drugs. 

A person under the influence does not cause others to assault them; others choose to take advantage of the situation and sexually assault someone because they are vulnerable. Alcohol can increase misperceptions of a person's sexual interest, decrease concern about their experience or decrease ability to evaluate accurately whether consent has been obtained. 

- A person who has really been sexually assaulted will be hysterical. 

Victims exhibit a wide range of responses to assault which can include; calm, hysteria, withdrawal, anger, apathy, denial and shock. There is no "right way" to react. 

- Rapists always use weapons and cause physical injury or someone can only be sexually assaulted if a weapon is involved. 

The perpetrator often uses physical strength, physical violence, intimidation, threats or a combination of these tactics to overpower the victim. 

Holding on to these myths denies reality. We can create a safer world educating ourselves about the truth of sexual violence. It's not just a women's issue, it's about human dignity. April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Stand up, Speak out and Make a Difference. 

Malmstrom SARC 24-hour hotline: 781-6005.