Rape of men is a well-known fact of institutional life.  Less well-known is the fact that it occurs outside of prison as well, and that male rapes are increasing every year.  It is a crime that is grossly under-reported and under-estimated. 

Male victims may be either straight or gay, and assailants may also be either straight or gay.  Sixty percent of all male rape victims are heterosexual.

Initial concerns of men who have been sexually assaulted are the same as those of women: 

• Fear and feelings of vulnerability.  A sexual assault is very frightening, and it represents a loss of control as well as an invasion of bodily integrity and personal identity. 

• Confusion.  However violent the assault, it involved sexual organs and sexual humiliation.  The victim is confused and may be questioning whether he brought on or asked for the assault in some way.

• Shame and guilt.  Men often feel guilty that they were unable to stop the assault, and ashamed that they were humiliated and made so vulnerable.

• Anger.  Victims often feel very angry.  Men are particularly reluctant to report sexual assaults to the police and may want to retaliate themselves. 

If you have been sexually assaulted, talk to someone about it.  People need to talk about frightening experiences in order to recover.  S.A.R.T. volunteers (305) 798-6666  have been trained to be sensitive to male victims as well as females, and you can talk to an advocate anonymously if you wish.  Counseling Center psychologists (305) 284-5511 are also sensitive to issues that arise for men who have been victimized.  Their services are confidential but not anonymous.

Remember that the assault was not your fault.  Rape is an act of aggression and hostility, not an act of sexual desire.