MYTH: Most woman are raped by strangers.

FACT: At least two-thirds of all rapes involve persons who are known to each other. One-fourth of college women have been victims of rape or attempted rape and close to 90% knew their attacker.

MYTH: Rape is the victim's fault.

FACT: Rape is never the victim's fault. Even if she did something that puts her in a vulnerable position, she did not ask to be sexually assaulted.

MYTH: Rape has to do with sex and passion,

FACT: Rape is not about sexual desire but is a crime of violence expressed through sex. The rapist wants power and control over the victim.

MYTH: Women provoke rape by their dress and behavior.

FACT: No one asked to be raped. Women have a right to dress any way they wish. It is the rapist who decides to force sex on the victim.

MYTH: Rapists are mentally ill.

FACT: The majority of rapists are ordinary guys who believe in the myths of the stereotypical macho male and have no history of mental disorders.

MYTH: Only young and attractive females are raped.

FACT: While age and gender may be risk factors, victims can be of any age, gender or race.

MYTH: Rape will never happen to me.

FACT: All women and girls are at risk for rape. Even men and boys are victims of rape.