Research indicates that 42% of men who were sexually abused as children disclose their abuse, compared to 60% of women. Although boys and men do not disclose for similar reasons to girls and women —such as fear, self-blame and shame—boys and men also face gender specific barriers.
These barriers stem from gender role norms, assumptions about victims and survivors, and cultural stigmas about abuse, which lead many boys and men to suffer the impacts of child sexual abuse in silence. For professionals, understanding the unique challenges faced by boys and men is critical to providing support that appropriately responds to their needs.
This downloadable Summary Guide shares key insights from our new interactive learning tool, Supporting boys and men to disclose child sexual abuse. It aims to equip professionals with the awareness and knowledge to create safe spaces where boys and men can disclose their experiences and begin their healing journeys.
Download the Summary Guide on this page, or explore our interactive learning tool.
