Why Do People Blame Rape Victims?

 

Why do people blame rape victims? Some people make the she was asking for it argument – like women want to be abused and harassed. That argument isn’t often used for other types of crimes, though. If a man buys a beautiful red sports car, takes good care of it, keeps it clean and polished to a high gloss, most people don’t engage in victim blaming when it gets stolen.

Unfortunately, many people blame the victim in cases of sexual assault and harassment. And sure, maybe sometimes a woman might start what she sees as an innocent flirtation without knowing where it may lead.

It doesn’t always result in rape or sexual violence. Sometimes it just creates an awkward situation, especially at work. It can be difficult to say ‘no’ to someone who has power over your career. If we’re asking, “Why do people blame rape victims?” maybe that’s part of the answer. Really though, the blame for a rape always lies with the rapist.

Women need to learn how to stand up for themselves and create clear boundaries, especially at work. At The Women’s Code we don’t judge women for their behavior. We concentrate on teaching them to behave in such a way that people can’t make the she was asking for it argument when something bad happens.

We help women to think things through and make good decisions ahead of time. It needs experience to pick up the signals of a friendly interaction gone wrong, and strength of mind and character to set boundaries with a superior at work. If we work towards that goal, hopefully we’ll never again have to ask “Why do people blame rape victims?”