THE BASICS OF VICTIM BLAMING
“Victim blaming occurs when the victim of a crime or any wrongful act is held entirely or partially at fault for the harm that befell them. The study of victimology seeks to mitigate the prejudice against victims, and the perception that victims are in any way responsible for the actions of offenders.” - Resource Center on Victims of Crime
Victims of domestic violence and sex crimes historically have a greater tendency to be blamed by society.
However a rape is a crime. Regardless if someone was acquainted. Rape can even occur within a marriage or committed relationship.
Examples of victim blaming …
• Statement: That woman was raped. Response: she always dressed sexy, she was asking for it.
• Statement: The broken down bus was rear-ended. Response: They should have had cones out warning people.
• Statement: Their house was robbed. Response: They shouldn’t wear fancy jewelry, and wear nice clothes,they were asking for it.
Criminals or people who are at fault should take responsibility, not the victims of the crime(s).