Do You Believe Any of These Myths About Being the Victim of Sexual Assault?

Do You Believe Any of These Myths About Being the Victim of Sexual Assault?

There is no question that being the victim of sexual assault can change a person’s life forever. If you have found yourself in this difficult situation, we hope that you will consider contacting Justice 4 Crime Victims at 949-585-9055 to talk to a victim’s rights attorney who can help you. At a minimum, please read below to make sure that you have not fallen for any of these common myths about your situation.

Myth: Most Sexual Offenders Are Strangers

More than 90% of children who are the victim of sexual assault know their offender, and in nearly half of all cases, the offender is a family member. Similar numbers are true for those who are 12, and older who are the victims of sexual assault – about 80% of them know the offender.

Myth: Sexual Assault Usually Involves Physical Force

One of the reasons that victims of sexual assault often feel that they are “just overreacting” is because there is a popular myth that sexual assaults always involve physical force. This is generally not the case, and in fact, the majority of sexual assault cases do not involve force. However, they do commonly involve deceit, coercion, and enticement.

Myth: Men Are the Only Perpetrators of Sexual Assault

Yes, most sex offenders are male. However, sex offenders can be female, and they can offend against both male and female victims.

Myth: Keeping Abuse a Secret Has Any Meaning

It is very common for a person who was the victim of sexual abuse to keep it a secret and to later fall victim to the myth that having kept it a secret means anything at all. Some people think this means that no one will believe them if they tell the truth later down the line, while others think that if they are afraid to tell someone, that must mean they consented in some way.

These are all false statements. The truth is that most people who do not tell anyone about the abuse right away are prevented from doing so out of embarrassment or fear.

Myth: It’s Best to Put the Assault Behind You and Move On

Every victim is different. What each victim needs is different. However, studies are clear that persons who are victims and try to move on without closure or assistance often find that the abuse comes back to haunt them years later.

If you have been the victim of sexual assault or another type of assault, contact Justice 4 Crime Victims at 949-585-9055 for a free legal consultation. We here for one purpose: to protect your rights. Call now to see how we can help.