Neuroscience evidence counters a rape myth

Victims frequently report immobility during rape and sexual assault, often using the term 'freezing'. Neuroscientific evidence suggests fear and threat can block cortical neural circuits for action control, leading to involuntary immobility. Defence arguments that blame victims for freezing are thus inappropriate and unjust.

Automated summary

In cases of rape and sexual assault, victims often experience a state of immobility referred to as 'freezing'. Neuroscientific research suggests that this freeze response is a result of fear and threat, which can inhibit the brain circuits responsible for voluntary movement. Thus, defense arguments that blame victims for freezing are inappropriate and unfair.