FACT Myths about rape and sexual abuse prevent victims from reporting the incident by making them believe it was their fault and by discrediting their experiences. People also tend to feel safer by believing that it could never happen to them. These beliefs make the recovery of the survivor even more difficult.
Rapists use myths to support their actions and condone their behavior.
The truth about rape and sexual abuse must be understood as a means of prevention of future crimes. The rapist is always responsible for having committed rape. Regardless of the victim's appearance, behavior, judgment or previous actions, the survivor is not responsible for the rape or sexual abuse. Rape is never committed in self-defense. Rape is an expression of sexual desire.