Victim blaming often happens because it is deeply uncomfortable for people to confront the reality that someone they know, respect, or trusted caused harm. Placing blame on the victim can feel easier than accepting that a perpetrator chose to commit sexual violence.
People may also speak from unprocessed emotions such as shock, denial, fear, or confusion. When these thoughts are expressed out loud instead of worked through privately or with professional support, they can unintentionally cause further harm to victims who are already coping with trauma.
Cultural factors also play a role. In U.S. society, long-standing patriarchal beliefs often minimize violence committed by men and place higher expectations or scrutiny on women and marginalized people. Holding perpetrators accountable challenges these power structures, which can lead individuals or communities to redirect blame instead of addressing the harm directly.