In most sexual assaults, the victim has no trouble choosing the perpetrator out of a lineup, because a majority of rapes are committed by someone whom the victim knows -- like a classmate, a neighbor, a co-worker, a friend of a friend, or a family member.

The challenge for most victims of sexual violence is not the ability to identify the perpetrator, but rather consent. For example, a victim will report a rape to police (which in itself is not common because of the stigma attached to rape and the inadequate response of the criminal justice system) and the perpetrator will claim that the "sex" was consensual.

In addressing how eyewitness and victim testimony should be used in trials, I suggest caution because focusing on the "faulty memories of victims" will only further validate the current victim-blaming culture.