GBV 101: Activity 3
What are rape myths and how do I debunk them?
Rape Myths function to deny and justify sexual violence and rape. When we challenge rape myths we are dismantling the pyramid of rape culture by unlearning archaic sexist and victim-blaming stereotypes. “Endorsement of rape myths has been related to an individual’s tendency to disbelieve rape victims, to blame victims for their own sexual assault, and in some cases, to commit sexual violence themselves.” (Salerno-Ferraro, A. & Jung, S. 2021)
Myth
Sexual assault doesn't happen that often anymore
Fact
Globally 1 in 3 women/girls and feminized people experience sexual violence in their lifetime, this rate is higher for Women of Colour, Black women, Indigenous Women/Two-Spirit, disabled women, Trans women and Queer Women
Myth
If a victim of sexual assault does not fight back, they must have thought the assault was not that bad or they may have wanted it.
Fact
Many survivors experience tonic immobility or a “freeze response” during an assault where they physically cannot move or speak. They can also respond with fawning or flight or fight.
Myth
Wearing revealing clothing, behaving provocatively, or drinking a lot means the victim was “asking for it”.
Fact
The perpetrator selects the victim/survivor. The victim’s/survivor’s behavior or clothing choices do not mean that they are consenting to sexual activity or inviting harm.
Myth
If a survivor/victim doesn’t report to the police it didn’t happen or wasn’t that serious.
Fact
Over 90% of survivors do not report to the police because of multiple reasons, some being: a fear of stigmatization, a fear the arrest would lead to losing children or income, the re-traumatization of a trial or investigation and the outdated assessments the police use to evaluate survivors risks, often leaving them more vulnerable to harm.
Myth
Sexual assault is mostly committed by strangers.
Fact
87% of survivors/victims knew the perpetrator before the crime.
Myth
Survivors who disclose they have been sexually assaulted will be hysterical and crying.
Fact
Everyone responds differently to trauma. Some people may laugh, some may cry, and others will not show any emotions. There is no "perfect victim" or response. Every survivor will disclose their experiences in different ways.
Myth
Sexual assault is most likely to happen outside in dark, dangerous places.
Fact
The majority of sexual assaults happen in private spaces like a business or private home.
Myth
It’s not a big deal to have sex with a person while they are drunk, stoned or passed out, especially if they are your partner our spouse.
Fact
If a person or your partner is unconscious or incapable of consenting due to the use of alcohol or drugs, they cannot legally give consent.
Explore some more Debunking Rape Myths Research and Learning Below. You can also click on “download activity” to access this in a word document.
Remember, without consent it is sexual assault. If you need a consent 101 refresher, go to the Consent 101 section in the Empowered Bystander Intervention section of the learning portal.