Sexual and Gender-based Violence (SGBV) is a serious global issue affecting millions of people, particularly women and girls. Despite the growing awareness of its prevalence and impact, many myths and misconceptions still surround SGBV. These myths can perpetuate harmful stereotypes, prevent survivors from coming forward, and hinder efforts to address this issue effectively.

This article explores some of the most common myths about SGBV so we can set the record straight.

Myth 1: “SGBV Only Happens to Women”

FACT: SGBV can affect people of any gender.

Male survivors of sexual violence are often overlooked or stigmatized, with society assuming that men cannot be victims of sexual assault. While statistics show that women are disproportionately affected by SGBV, men and boys can also be victims.

In conflict zones such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), there have been reported cases of men being targeted by sexual violence as a weapon of war. We have seen many stories of men who shared that their first sexual experiences were as children and were with nannies, relatives, teachers. This is a form of SGBV. Statistics have it that 1 in 10 men will experience sexual violence in their lifetime. It’s crucial to drop the assumption that men cannot be victims.

Myth 2: “SGBV Only Happens in Poor Countries”

FACT: SGBV happens everywhere.

Many people still believe that SGBV is an issue confined to developing countries. SGBV is a global problem that knows no borders and occurs worldwide, in both high-income and low-income countries. Developed countries like the United States, the UK, and Canada report significant rates of sexual violence, including domestic violence, human trafficking, and sexual harassment.

In 2019, a report from the UK Home Office found that one in five women in England and Wales had experienced some form of sexual violence since the age of 16. In the US, the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) reports that one in five women and one in 71 men will experience rape at some point in their lives. These statistics show that SGBV is a widespread issue, not just one that occurs in developing or underdeveloped countries.

Myth 3: “If Someone Doesn’t Fight Back, They Must Have Wanted It”

FACT: No one wants to be abused sexually.

A pervasive myth surrounding sexual violence is that a survivor’s response during the abuse shows whether or not they are “guilty” of provoking the attack. Some people assume that if the survivor doesn’t physically resist, it must mean that they are okay with the abuse.

The reality is that victims of SGBV often experience a range of reactions to trauma, including fear, paralysis, or freezing. Research shows that a significant percentage of survivors experience a freeze response. The body’s natural fight-or-flight response can sometimes cause a victim to become immobilized during the abuse. This reaction is not consent. This is why survivors should never be blamed for how they respond during an assault, as every person reacts differently to trauma.

Myth 4: “SGBV Survivors Often Lie About Their Experiences”

FACT: False reporting of sexual violence is rare.

There is a persistent myth that SGBV survivors fabricate or exaggerate their experiences. This myth suggests that people falsely report SGBV to get attention or to ruin someone’s life. This not only undermines survivors’ credibility but also discourages others from coming forward.

Victims of SGBV are often subjected to intense scrutiny and questioning, and many choose not to report or talk about their experiences due to fear of not being believed. But studies show that only 2-8% of sexual assault reports are believed to be false (NSVRC).

Sexual violence is a massive traumatic experience survivors have to deal with. It is important that we offer them support instead of questioning their truth.

Myth 5: “Survivors of SGBV Are Always Forever Stained By The Experience”

FACT: Survivors are not defined by their trauma.

Another harmful myth is that survivors of SGBV are forever ruined by their trauma and cannot move forward with their lives. While it’s true that SGBV can have profound emotional, physical, and psychological effects, many survivors show remarkable resilience and strength in rebuilding their lives.

It is important for us to view survivors not as victims, but as individuals who have the capacity to heal, thrive, and even empower others. Many survivors have gone on to become advocates, counselors, and change-makers in their communities.

Conclusion: Moving Beyond the Myths

The myths and misconceptions surrounding Sexual and Gender-based Violence are not just incorrect—they actively harm survivors and prevent us from making real progress in tackling the issue. If we want to help survivors, it is crucial for us to dispel these false beliefs so that we can create a society that supports survivors, where everyone works hand-in-hand toward ending SGBV.

We all have a role in debunking these myths. By sharing the truth, supporting survivors, and educating ourselves and others, we can work together to break down the walls of silence and shame around SGBV.

If you or someone you know is experiencing SGBV, don’t stay silent. Help is available. Reach out to support organizations, talk to someone you trust, or call a helpline to get the support and resources you need. You are not alone. Also learn more from our website

References

1. WHO, Violence against women
2. UN Women, Understanding consent
3. UNFPA, Violence against women and girls