Exploring The Myths

Myth

Rape is committed by a maniac or pervert.

Reality

The man who rapes is not a monster, the rapist is more often than not considered to be a ‘respectable’, ‘nice’, ‘ordinary’ man and may be known to the victim.

Myth

Rape is only committed by a stranger, on a dark street, late at night.

Reality

The man who rapes is not a monster, the rapist is more often than not considered to be a ‘respectable’, ‘nice’, ‘ordinary’ man and may be known to the victim.

Myth

Good girls don’t get raped.

Reality

Any women could be raped. Being what is termed a ‘respectable women’ does not prevent a rape occurring. Women of every age, class and race have experienced rape. A person’s status is not a factor.

Myth

Rapists are in the grip of an uncontrollable sexual urge.

Reality

It seems clear that a rapist gets his ‘kicks’ from the sensation of power and control, rather than from the sexual act.

The Northamptonshire Rape & Incest Crisis Centre, 4 St Giles Terrace, Northampton NN1 2BN

Registered Charity No. 297043

This Centre is Grant aided by Northampton Borough Council & Northamptonshire County Council

Telephone: 01604 250721