Sexual Assault Awareness Month: Myth v.s. Fact
Myth: Survivors of sexual assault would fight back
Fact: Survivors can experience an immobility or a “freeze response” and physically cannot speak or move.
Myth: Dressing a certain gives the impression they are “asking for it”
Fact: Victims choice of clothing, no matter the style, has zero link to being more vulnerable to assault.
Myth: A person cannot sexually assault their partner
Fact: 1 in 10 women have experienced assault by an intimate partner in their lifetime.
Myth: False sexual assault reporting is common
Fact: Only 2 – 8% of assaults are falsely reported.
Myth: Men are not capable of being victims of sexual violence
Fact: 1.5% of all men have reported sexual assault and 47% of bisexual men experienced some form of unwanted sexual contact.
*All facts from https://www.ourresilience.org
Sexual assault is never the victim’s fault; there is no right or wrong thing a person can do. However, there are some helpful prevention tips to consider:
The buddy system, go out in groups or with a friend
Make sure phone has enough battery charge before going out
When going out alone, let friends and family know where you are going, with who, and time frames if available
Avoid noise cancelling headphones when walking alone to be aware of your surroundings
If you are worried you are being followed or feeling unsafe go to the nearest business and alert staff
Listen to your gut, if you feel something is off you can end a date at anytime
You can say stop at any time even during sexual contact
For more information you can contact
Warrior’s Path at 360-462-7654
for 100% confidential support.
