Part of an ongoing series dedicated to ending violence through education and community support.
Myth: Sexual violence is more likely to be committed by a stranger.
Reality: It’s just the opposite. Many sexual assaults are committed by someone known to the victim, like an intimate partner, family member, or caretaker. About half of female victims of rape reported being raped by an intimate partner and nearly 41% by an acquaintance.
Myth: She stays in a violent relationship because of low self-esteem or mental health issues.
Reality: A man who uses violence against his female partner typically utilizes a range of strategies to encourage her compliance and dependence, such as monitoring her movements and encouraging her to blame herself for the abuse. People of all backgrounds and personality types can be victims of abuse. Having strong financial means or family ties doesn’t ensure a victim is able to easily or safely leave.
Myth: Domestic violence is just an occasional slap or punch that is not serious.
Reality: Victims are often seriously injured and sometimes killed. Last year, in Duval County alone, there were 13 domestic violence homicides. Additionally, a significant number of the women seeking care in emergency rooms are victims of domestic violence. Some physical injuries go unidentified as abuse.
Sometimes, the scars are not visible. Victims can suffer intense emotional distress, psychological challenges, and/or financial struggles because of the abuse. Leaving the relationship doesn’t mean the healing journey is over, as some victims may continue to endure the effects of the trauma for a long time.
Myth: Child abusers or molesters aren’t “normal” or educated, and don’t have means.
Reality: Abusers can be anyone. Many abusers understand that a charming persona in public often leads people to believe they are the same way in private. They use this perception to get access to children. Many lead double lives. They could even be people that children and adults trust, like a family member or community leader.