Non-consensual sexual behaviour is a serious issue that can have devastating and long-term effects on victims. The myths and misconceptions surrounding non-consensual sexual behaviour can make it difficult to understand the true nature of this issue. It is important to recognize that the facts about non-consensual sexual behaviour are very different from the myths.

Myth 1: Non-consensual sexual behaviour is not a serious issue:

Fact: Non-consensual sexual behaviour is a serious crime with severe consequences. It is a violation of the victim’s right to bodily autonomy and can have a profound and lasting effect on their mental health. People who are victims of non-consensual sexual behaviour can suffer from depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Myth 2: Non-consensual sexual behaviour only happens between strangers:

Fact: Non-consensual sexual behaviour can happen between people who know each other. The majority of non-consensual sexual behaviour is perpetrated by someone the victim knows. This could be a family member, a friend, or an acquaintance.

Myth 3: Only women can be victims of non-consensual sexual behaviour:

Fact: People of all genders can be victims of non-consensual sexual behaviour. While it is true that women are more likely to be victims of sexual assault, men and non-binary individuals can also be victims of non-consensual sexual behaviour.

Myth 4: People who are victims of non-consensual sexual behaviour are to blame for the attack:

Fact: Victims of non-consensual sexual behaviour are never to blame for the attack. The perpetrator is always the one responsible for the attack, no matter what the victim was wearing, saying, or doing.

Myth 5: People who have been victims of non-consensual sexual behaviour can “just get over it”:

Fact: Recovery from non-consensual sexual behaviour can be a long and difficult process. It is important to recognize that everyone’s healing process is different and takes time. It is important to be patient and supportive of victims as they work through their unique healing process.

Myth 6: Non-consensual sexual behaviour always involves physical violence:

Fact: pretrial online sex therapy does not always involve physical violence. In some cases, non-consensual sexual behaviour can be perpetrated without physical contacts, such as through the use of threats or coercion.

Myth 7: If someone is intoxicated, they are not capable of giving consent:

Fact: Intoxication does not negate the need for consent. If someone is intoxicated, they are not capable of giving informed consent, and any sexual contact with them is considered non-consensual.

Myth 8: There is nothing that can be done to prevent non-consensual sexual behaviour:

Fact: Many things can be done to prevent non-consensual sexual behaviour. Education is key, and it is important to teach people about healthy and respectful relationships.