Facts & Myths
No one is immune from sexual assault or rape.
Rape is defined as sexual intercourse with a person against their will, by force, threat and/or intimidation. Any situation in which an individual does not provide consent for a sexual act is considered a sexual assault. It is an assertion of power over another; anyone can be a victim.
Below are some commonly held myths and the real facts.
Myth
Persons who are drunk are willing to engage in any kind of sexual activity.
Fact
The fact that someone has been drinking does not imply consent. Alcohol and drugs can render a person incapable of consent. Virginia state law recognizes that when someone is drunk, she or he is unable to give consent. If you have sex with someone who is passed out or incapable of giving consent, it will be considered sexual assault.
Myth
The majority of rapes are committed by strangers.
Fact
Especially on college campuses, the majority of rapes and sexual assaults are committed in a “date” situation and the victim knows her or his assailant.
Myth
It is impossible to sexually assault a man.
Fact
Men are often victims for the same reasons as women: they are overwhelmed by threats or acts of physical and emotional violence.
Myth
It wasn’t rape because the victim did not resist.
Fact
Many believe that people cannot be raped if they did not put up a struggle. However, rape survivors commonly report fearing for their lives and being immobilized by that fear.