FALSE
Sexual Assault Only Happens to Women
Many believe that sexual assault only happens to women.
Why?
Sexual assault can happen to anyone, regardless of gender. Men, women, and non-binary individuals can all be victims of sexual assault.
TRUE
Sexual Assault Is About Power, Not Sex
Sexual assault is primarily an act of power and control, rather than a sexual act.
Why?
Perpetrators use sexual assault to dominate, humiliate, and exert power over their victims. It is not driven by sexual desire but by the desire to control.
FALSE
Victims Provoke Sexual Assault by Their Clothing
Some believe that the way a person dresses can provoke sexual assault.
Why?
No one ever asks to be assaulted, regardless of what they are wearing. Sexual assault is the fault of the perpetrator, not the victim's clothing.
TRUE
Most Sexual Assaults Are Committed by Someone the Victim Knows
Many statistics show that sexual assault is often committed by someone the victim knows.
Why?
Approximately 8 out of 10 sexual assaults are committed by someone known to the victim, such as a friend, acquaintance, or family member.
FALSE
Only Young People Are Victims of Sexual Assault
There is a misconception that only young people can be victims of sexual assault.
Why?
Sexual assault can happen to people of all ages, from children to the elderly. No age group is immune to this crime.
TRUE
Sexual Assault Can Have Long-Term Effects
The impact of sexual assault can be long-lasting and profound.
Why?
Victims of sexual assault can experience long-term psychological effects such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and difficulty forming relationships.
FALSE
If They Didn't Fight Back, It Wasn't Sexual Assault
Some believe that if the victim did not physically fight back, it means it was not sexual assault.
Why?
Victims may not fight back due to fear, shock, or being physically overpowered. The absence of physical resistance does not mean consent was given.
TRUE
Consent Must Be Clear and Ongoing
Consent to sexual activity must be explicit and can be withdrawn at any time.
Why?
Consent involves clear, voluntary, and enthusiastic agreement. It can be revoked at any moment, and all parties must respect the withdrawal of consent.
FALSE
False Accusations of Sexual Assault Are Common
There is a belief that many reports of sexual assault are false accusations.
Why?
False reports of sexual assault are very rare. The majority of sexual assault claims are true and should be taken seriously.
TRUE
Support Services Are Available for Victims
There are many support services available for victims of sexual assault.
Why?
Support services such as counseling, hotlines, and support groups are available to help victims of sexual assault heal and seek justice.
FALSE
Sexual Assault Happens Because of Uncontrollable Sexual Urges
Some believe that sexual assault happens due to uncontrollable sexual urges.
Why?
Sexual assault is about power and control, not sexual desire. Perpetrators choose to commit this crime to dominate and intimidate their victims.
TRUE
Sexual Assault Is a Crime
Sexual assault is a serious crime punishable by law.
Why?
Sexual assault is illegal and can result in severe legal consequences for the perpetrator, including imprisonment.
FALSE
Only Strangers Commit Sexual Assault
Some believe that sexual assault is usually committed by strangers.
Why?
Most sexual assaults are committed by someone the victim knows, such as a friend, family member, or acquaintance.
TRUE
Victims Often Feel Shame and Guilt
Victims of sexual assault often experience feelings of shame and guilt.
Why?
Shame and guilt are common reactions for victims of sexual assault, even though they are not at fault for the crime committed against them.
FALSE
Sexual Assault Victims Always Show Physical Injuries
There is a belief that sexual assault victims always have visible physical injuries.
Why?
Not all sexual assaults result in visible physical injuries. Many assaults involve psychological trauma without physical evidence.
TRUE
Victims Should Seek Medical Attention
It is important for victims of sexual assault to seek medical attention.
Why?
Medical professionals can provide necessary care, collect evidence, and offer support and resources to victims of sexual assault.
FALSE
Men Cannot Be Sexually Assaulted
Some believe that men cannot be victims of sexual assault.
Why?
Men can and do experience sexual assault. This crime can affect individuals of any gender.
TRUE
It's Never Too Late to Seek Help
Victims of sexual assault can seek help at any time, no matter how long ago the assault occurred.
Why?
It is important to seek support whenever the victim feels ready, regardless of when the assault happened. Resources are always available.
FALSE
Most Sexual Assaults Are Reported to the Police
There is a misconception that most sexual assaults are reported to the police.
Why?
Many sexual assaults go unreported due to fear, shame, or lack of trust in the justice system. It is estimated that only a fraction are reported.
TRUE
Victims Can Seek Legal Justice
Victims of sexual assault have the right to seek legal justice.
Why?
Legal avenues are available to prosecute perpetrators and provide justice for victims. Legal support services can assist in navigating this process.