The Lies About Rape that We Still Believe
A guide through rape myths, and what too many people still falsely believe.
The ultimate effect of rape upon the womanβs mental and emotional health has been accomplished even without the act. For to accept a special burden of self-protection is to reinforce the concept that women must live and move about in fear and can never expect to achieve the personal freedom, independence, and self-assurance of men
β Susan Brownmiller
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Rape myths are attitudes and beliefs about rape that are widely and persistently held by individuals within a given cultural context. Early definitions described rape myths as βprejudicial, stereotyped, or false beliefs about rape, rape victims, and rapistsβ that may βdeny or reduce perceived injury or to blame the victims for their own victimizationβ1.