FreyjaLifestyle & Education

Male sexual assault

FreyjaFreyja

February 27, 2023

Male sexual assault is incredibly under-reported and very misunderstood. The fact of the matter is sexual assault can happen to anyone regardless of their age, sexual orientation or gender identity. The U.S. Department of Justice estimates that 16% of men experienced sexual abuse by the age of 18. Yet, there are many myths surrounding male sexual assault the need to be addressed.

  1. It is not true that men cannot be assaulted. 
  2. It is not true that only gay men assault other men.
  3. It is not true that only gay men are assaulted.
  4. Women can assault men, not just other men.
  5. It is a myth that an erection or ejaculation during the assault means that you like it.

Men and boys may face the same effects of sexual assault as other survivors, however, they also face additional challenges due to social attitudes and stereotypes surrounding men and masculinity. These reactions included, but are not limited to:

  1. Denial 
  2. Find the idea of being a victim hard to handle. 
  3. Many think they deserved to be assaulted because they couldn't defend themselves. 
  4. Due to guilt, shame or anger, they may punish themselves by getting into self-destructive behaviors such as drugs or alcoholism. 
  5. May find sexual relations challenging. 
  6. Question their own sexuality - may have concerns or questions about sexual orientation. 
  7. Feeling like 'less of a man' or that you no longer have control over your own body. 
  8. Withdrawal from relationships or friendships and an increased sense of isolation. 
  9. Worrying about disclosing for fear of judgement of disbelief. 
  10. Self-blame or self-loathing attached to their sexuality.

Universal reactions to sexual assault:

  1. Disbelief/denial 
  2. Emotional shock 
  3. Embarrassment 
  4. Shame 
  5. Depression 
  6. Loss of control 
  7. Disorientation 
  8. Flashbacks 
  9. Fear
  10. Anxiety
  11. Anger
  12. Physical stress

There are many factors of sexual assault that can impact someone. For example, the age at which the abuse began, the duration of the abuse and the type can further influence the types and degrees of problems a man has to deal with.

Support and Resources:

  1. ‍RAINN helpline
  2. Man kind
  3. Nomas
  4. Male Survivor 

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