Male victims of sexual assault: An exploratory study

Abstract

Objective: Twenty percent of the male population becomes a victim of sexual assault at least once in their life. Thus far, studies and post-assault care are mostly focussed on female victims. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether the risk factors for experiencing sexual assault, the use of post-assault crisis care and the need for trauma therapy differ between male and female victims. Methods: This study was conducted at a Dutch sexual assault centre and included a sample of 25 male and 25 female victims of sexual assault matched on age and type of sexual assault. Information about risk factors, use of crisis care and referrals were based on retrospective self-report. Results: The findings indicated that male victims are more often homo- or bisexual than female victims. No significant differences were found between the genders concerning cognitive disabilities, having divorced parents, having a history of sexual assault or the presence of pre-existing health care. Significantly less male victims used the medical care. No significant differences were found between the genders concerning the use of the forensic or psychological crisis care. Also no differences were found between the genders concerning the amount of referrals for trauma therapy. Discussion: The present study showed that homo- and bisexual men seem to be particularly vulnerable for experiencing sexual assault. The present study also suggests a possible improvement concerning more male centred post-assault medical care. More knowledge is essential to facilitate more fitting post-assault care.