Sexual violence among men who have sex with men and two-spirit peoples: A scoping review

Abstract

Sexual violence (SV) is a human rights and public health issue that impacts people from all communities. Men who have sex with men/Two-Spirit (MSM/2S) peoples are up to six times more likely to experience SV compared to heterosexual men. In addition, MSM/2S people are less likely to report SV. Reasons for this lack of reporting include male rape myths, fear of judgment, stigma, shame, homophobia, and/or lack of access to supportive services. The current scoping review offers a synthesis of the recent literature regarding SV among MSM/2S peoples in order to make research, practice, and policy recommendations. Findings indicated consistent SV risk factors, associated negative health outcomes, and barriers to accessing services. Risk factors included being younger, inexperience in MSM/2S communities, and having a history of sexual abuse or violence. Negative health outcomes included increased risk for HIV, depression, anxiety, heart disease, fear, eating disorders, substance use, social isolation, PTSD, and suicide. Help-seeking barriers included limited support services, lack of reporting, and male rape myths. Policy recommendations include targeted efforts to raise awareness of SV among MSM/2S peoples, and affirming the legitimacy of reporting SV through specialized healthcare services and trained professionals.