Rape myths are part of the general culture. People learn them in the same way they acquire other attitudes and beliefs - from their families, their friends, newspapers, movies, books, dirty jokes, and lately, music videos. The culture reinforces the behavior, and the behavior re-informs the culture and becomes the reality. To break this continuing cycle of beliefs, we must unlearn false beliefs that perpetuate the rape culture. The followings are examples of false statements, yet they are often concepts believed to be true.
Most sexual assault involves strangers attacking women.
No woman can be forced against her will to have sex. Men cannot control their sexual urges. Most men cannot do anything about the problem of rape, because most men do not rape. Sexual assaults happen on dark streets and walkways. Drinking with friends and acquaintances has no influence on coercive sexual incidents.