Understanding Male Sexual Victimization: An Expository Synthesis

Abstract

Sexual victimization is typically analyzed in our society through a gender-based lens, with the typecast scenario being that of a female victim and male offender. Because of this, male sexual victimization has been severely understudied, with many believing it is less common than it actually is. This lack of research and stigma surrounding the topic has severe consequences for male victims, who often face the same challenges in recovery as female victims, but with an added layer of complexity. Sexual scripts, gender roles, and male rape myths all contribute to this issue by framing women as "ideal victims" and minimizing the plight of men after being victimized. This thesis examines preconceived notions about male victimization present in our society and where they come from, thus seeking to bring attention to the issue. This research was not with the goal of diminishing the issues and stigma that female victims face, but to recognize the additional challenges for male victims, in an effort to acknowledge the potential need for gender neutral interventions following assault.