Male child sexual abuse

Abstract

Up to 92,000 male children report sexual abuse each year, and as many as 31% of all male children under age 18 years experience sexual molestation. Male child sexual abuse is now believed to be a far more common occurrence than it once was. Pediatric nurse practioners are in a key position to prevent and recognize the sexual exploitation of male children. This article addresses the incidence of male child sexual abuse, the psychological and physical ramifications for the child, and the roles and responsibilities of the clinician, including interview, physical and psychological assessment, legal aspects of reporting, and referral. Prevention techniques in a primary care setting are also discussed.