Which statement is a common myth about sexual assault that can hinder investigations?

• A. Victim dishonesty, rape myths, and 'she asked for it'
• B. Most survivors are fabricating the report
• C. Reports should be ignored to avoid bias
• D. Investigations should begin with blaming the victim

Answer: (B)

Believing that most survivors fabricate their reports is a pervasive and damaging myth because it seeds distrust from the outset and biases how investigators approach the case. When someone assumes deceit, they’re more likely to scrutinize the survivor’s every detail, demand implausible levels of corroboration, or frame questions in a way that feels accusatory. This not only slows the investigation but can re-traumatize the survivor and undermine their cooperation.

In reality, false reports are relatively rare, while many survivors experience memory gaps or confusion due to trauma, timing, or stress—factors that do not equal fabrication. The right approach is to treat every report with neutrality, gather all available evidence, document statements carefully, and conduct trauma-informed interviews that avoid leading questions. This helps ensure a fair, thorough investigation and supports survivors in coming forward.

Other myths about victim-blaming or avoiding bias are harmful as well, but the statement that most survivors are fabricating the report directly erodes credibility and trust essential to investigations.