Frequently asked questions
Q: How Common is Sexual Abuse?
A: Very Common. 1 in 3 girls and 1 in 7 boys will experience sexual abuse.
Q: What should you do if you’ve been sexually abused or raped?
A: This stuff is hard to deal with on your own and it’s important to get some support for yourself. Talk to someone you can trust or call Rape Crisis.
Q: How many victims know their rapist?
A: 88% of women know the man who raped them.
Q: Aren’t all rapists dirty old men in trenchcoats?
A: No. Rapists are ordinary. They do not stand out. Rapists can be fathers, boyfriends, neighbors, friends, workmates, anyone.
Q: Aren’t rapists loners who are desperate for sex?
A: No. Many rapists are in relationships and may have families.
Q: Why do people rape?
A: Rapists like to feel power over someone. Some rapists do not think that what they do is rape.
Q: Is it still rape if it isn’t violent?
A: Yes. Most rape is NOT physically violent.
Q: What if someone changes their mind halfway through sex?
A: If you say stop at any point they must stop. Otherwise it is rape.
Q: Can you be raped by your boyfriend?
Yes. Rape within relationships is very common.
