Sexual aftereffects in male survivors of childhood sexual abuse

Abstract

Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) can color an adult's sexual interests and behaviors. This chapter considers four possible consequences of CSA: sexual disorientation, sexual compulsions, kinky sexual interests, and sexual dysfunctions. However, men who have been sexually abused as children by a male perpetrator are often subject to confusion about their sexual orientation. There is some evidence that men with early CSA tend toward out-of-control sexual behaviors (OCSB), while dysfunction is more common for men abused as older children or adolescents. One of the most important drivers of sexual compulsions is shame. A true compulsion is often trouble for a client and requires therapeutic relief. The chapter summarizes the process and goals of psychotherapy. Psychotherapeutic tools can be used to diminish the impact of early trauma, including CSA, and reduce the force of compulsions. The chapter illustrates the stories of some male survivors of childhood sexual abuse.