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Home > Statistics > Fact or Fiction?
fact or fiction?Myths about Sexual Assault. Do you know the TRUTH?Sexual assault usually occurs between strangers. FICTION: 84% of women in Canada and 93% in Saskatchewan knew their assailants, boyfriends, partner, relative or friend. Prostitutes cannot be sexually assaulted. FICTION: Prostitutes can be sexually assaulted when sexual activity they have not agreed upon is forced onto them or becomes brutal. They are less likely to report the assault because of their profession. One out of every 12 female rape victims becomes pregnant. FACT: Some women feel ashamed of the ordeal they have went through and do not seek medical attention after the assault or often know their assailant and choose to keep the child. In Canada, rape occurs every 29 minutes and a sexual assault occurs every 6 minutes. FACT: These numbers however are largely under reported because not every assault is documented. In Canada, 1 out of 8 rapes are reported to the police. In Saskatoon, 15.5% of sexual assaults were reported to police (2002 Stats Canada survey). One in Five women in Canada is sexually assaulted. FACT: It is estimated that at least 20% or more women are being victimized. Women often cry false rape for reasons of revenge, pregnancy or jealousy. FICTION: False accusations of rape are no more frequent then in any other crime. It is unlikely that anyone would subject themselves to a sexual assault trial if the assault didn't happen. Further, false claims would not likely ever make its way to a trial. Alcohol is the cause of sexual assault. FICTION: Alcohol and drugs are a factor in 50% (90%, college age)of sexual assault cases, but this is not the cause of the attack. Often the abuser uses alcohol as an excuse for his actions. Also, if someone feeds another person alcohol (or drugs) in order to have sex with them, they can also be charged with sexual assault. A person cannot give consent if they are intoxicated or drugged - or asleep, for that matter. In Canada, a man who has sexual intercourse with his wife against her will cannot be charged with sexual assault. FICTION: A man can be charged with sexual assault even if married. This law came into effect in Canada in 1983. Remember, any sexual act that is forced upon another person is sexual assault - regardless of the relationship. The main reason for sexual assault is sex. FICTION: The assailant is more concerned about the actual power he has over his victim, than the sexual acts he performs. It is estimated that 90% of child sexual assault victims are female. FACT: Women make up the largest number of survivors of sexual crimes. |
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