Strangers are the most frequent perpetrators of sexual abuse.

The fact is that 93 percent of juvenile sexual assault victims know their abuser. One third are family members and one half are adults in positions of trust.

Source: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Dept. of Justice, 2000.

Myth #2
Sexual abuse happens to very few children and youths.

The fact is that research indicates one in four girls and one in six boys will be abused before their 18th birthday.

Source: Center for the Prevention of Sexual and Domestic Violence.

Myth #3
Most perpetrators are recognizable as being potentially harmful.

The fact is that most abusers look and act like everyone else and are often more charismatic and charming.

Source: Dr. Martha Stout, Ph.D., Harvard Medical School. “The Sociopath Next Door,” Broadway Books/Random House, 2005.

Myth #4
Sexual abuse is an over-reported crime.

The fact is that only 38 percent of all rapes and sexual assaults were reported to law enforcement officials in 2003.

Source: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Dept. of Justice, 2004.

Myth #5
Most perpetrators are dirty old men.

The fact is that the average age of rapists at arrest is 31.

Source: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Dept. of Justice, 1997.

Myth #6
Sexual abuse only happens to poor people.

The fact is that sexual abuse occurs in ALL social and economic groups.

Source: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Dept. of Justice, 2003.