Effects of Rape on Men: A Descriptive Analysis

Authors: Walker, Jayne¹; Archer, John¹; Davies, Michelle²

Source: Archives of Sexual Behavior, Volume 34, Number 1, February 2005 , pp. 69-80(12)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

Previous studies of the effects of rape on men have focused mainly on clinical populations. This study extended current research by investigating the effects of rape on a non-clinical sample of men recruited from the general population by media advertising. A total of 40 male rape victims were asked to provide details of their assaults, levels of psychological disturbance, long-term effects, and reporting issues. Results revealed that most assaults had been carried out using physical or violent force, in a variety of different circumstances. All of the victims reported some form of psychological disturbance as a result of being raped. Long-term effects included anxiety, depression, increased feelings of anger and vulnerability, loss of self-image, emotional distancing, self-blame, and self-harming behaviors. Findings are discussed in relation to previous research in the area and perceptions of rape.

Keywords: male rape; sexual assault; long term effects

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10508-005-1001-0

Affiliations: 1: Department of Psychology, University of Central Lancashire, Lancashire, England, 2: Department of Psychology, University of Central Lancashire, Lancashire, England, Email: mdavies3@uclan.ac.uk

Publication date: 2005-02-01