Rape myths are stereotypes and false beliefs associated with all forms of sexual assault. Popular rape myths include “she was asking for it,” “good guys don’t commit rape,” and “women lie about being raped to ruin men’s reputations.”
Recent research on sexual assault trials in Australia found that defence lawyers rely on, and reproduce, rape myths. But until now, it wasn’t clear if some rape myths are unique to sexual violence in the military.
Identifying military rape myths is essential to help reduce sexual violence committed by service members against their fellow soldiers.
