There is a lot of information circulating about sexual violence and the people affected by it.
Here are some common myths:
Myth: Sexual assault is an act of lust and passion.
Fact: Sexual assault is about power and control.
Myth: If a victim doesn’t fight back, they must have wanted the assault.
Fact: Many survivors experience a “freeze response” during an assault and are unable to move or speak.
Myth: A lot of victims lie about being raped.
Fact: Two to 10% are false reports.
Myth: Sex workers cannot be raped because they are selling sex.
Fact: Sex workers have the right to give and withhold consent to any sexual activity.
Myth: People with disabilities are at low risk for sexual assault.
Fact: People with disabilities are victims of sexual assault twice as much as people without.
Myth: Wearing revealing clothing, behaving provocatively, or being under the influence means the victim was “asking for it”.
Fact: The perpetrator selects the victim, no one “asks” to be raped.
Why is sexual assault often not reported?
Some of the most common reasons include:
- Fear of not being believed
- Being afraid of retaliation
- Shame or fear of being blamed
- Pressure from others
- Distrust toward law enforcement
- Desire to protect the attacker
My role as a SANE is to provide care to victims of sexual assault and address the trauma that may have occurred with the assault. In addition, my role involves collecting evidence that can be used in a criminal trial if the victim wishes. I want survivors of sexual assault to know they have options and I will uphold their confidentiality and respect their choices. I want to support the survivor as much as I can at the beginning of their recovery process.