Myths and Realities
Myths about sexual violence motivate and fuel violence and influence negative societal reactions to people who have been sexually assaulted. These myths serve to deny, trivialize, or justify sexual violence.
"Women often provoke sexual assault by their behaviour or how they are dressed."
No behaviour or way a person dresses justifies an assault. This myth takes the responsibility off the perpetrator and places it on the survivor. This myth is often used as an excuse by perpetrators.
"People lie about being sexually assaulted to gain attention or seek revenge."
The number of false reports is very low (2-8%) and consistent with other crimes. Sexual assault is actually one of the most under-reported crimes in Canada (<10%).
"There is no such thing as a male survivor of sexual assault."
Men/boys can be sexually assaulted regardless of strength, age, or orientation. They often face additional stigma imposed by traditional views about masculinity.
"Saying “no” is the only way of expressing a wish to not continue."
The law is clear: without consent, it is sexual assault. Non-consent also occurs if a person is too intoxicated, scared, asleep, or unconscious. Consent means saying “yes”.
"Sexual assault only happens when there is a struggle or physical injury."
Survival reactions often include "freezing." In reported cases, 80% of survivors knew their abusers, who are more likely to use coercion, threats, or mild force rather than violent struggle.
"Experiencing sexual violence is not harmful in the long-term."
Survivors often feel fear, depression, and anger. They can experience harmful physical and emotional effects regardless of the age at which the violence occurred.
"Some people are less likely to be targeted (e.g., 2SLGBTQIA+, Indigenous, Racialized, Disabled)."
Many of these individuals are MORE likely to be targeted. Social location is a predictor of likelihood to experience sexual violence, and hate crimes are motivated by bias.
"When a woman says “no” she secretly enjoys being forced, teased or coerced."
No one enjoys being assaulted. This myth is influenced by patriarchal gender expectations. When someone says NO, it is the responsibility of the other person to respect this.
"If people are in a relationship, sex is an assumed part of the agreement."
Sexual activity cannot be expected because of a relationship. Consent to any sexual activity can only be given by the individual, regardless of context.