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Information for Male Survivors of Sexual Assault

Men are not immune to sexual assaults. While our culture may often ignore the fact that men are sexually assaulted to reinforce social norms surrounding masculinity, research suggests that 10%-20% of men will be sexually assaulted at some point in their lifetimes. Though men can be sexually assaulted by women, studies show that 86% of male survivors were assaulted by another man. This does not mean that male survivors of sexual assault become rapists or are gay. Dispelling these two common myths is essential in acknowledging that men too can be sexually assaulted and reducing the destructive effects our culture has on male survivors.

Because men are not immune to sexual assault, they are also not immune to the challenges they must face as a survivor. "Anxiety, sadness, confusion, fear, numbness, self-blame, helplessness, hopelessness, suicidal feelings and shame are common reactions male and female survivors face." Additionally, men often face increased levels of hostility and aggression towards others, questions about their sexual identity, and fears about becoming a rapist. Having to face these challenges makes it important for all of us to acknowledge that sexual assault is an act of violence, power and control, and that no one deserves it.

For Heterosexual Men: Sexual assaults often cause confusion among men about their sexual identity. Though it is common for male survivors to question their sexual identity, it is important to remember that "men do not ‘become gay’ as a result of being sexually assaulted. Being sexually assaulted has nothing to do with ones sexual orientation." Rather, sexual assault is an act of violence, power, and control.

For Gay Men: Being sexually assaulted can often lead gay men to believe that they are somehow responsible due to their sexual orientation. This belief is reinforced by our culture's social norms surrounding masculinity and intolerance of the GLBTIQA community. These realities can frequently make it difficult for gay men to personally seek medical and legal assistance. It is important to remember that no one deserves to be sexually assaulted, survivors are never responsible for their assault, and that all survivors of sexual assault are worthy of receiving the medial and legal assistance needed.

For resource information, please visit the Resources page of this website.