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Male Survivors

It's likely that you never thought sexual assault could happen to you, probably because we all are socialized to see sexual assault as a crime against women, not against men. Because of this, many men have a hard time grasping that this is not a sexual crime. You have survived a violent assault. Sexual assault is devastating to all victims, regardless of gender, and many reactions are shared by both male and female victims. You may feel rage, shame, guilt, powerlessness, helplessness, concerns regarding your safety, and/or symptoms of physical illness.

However, there are special issues which may be different for you such as doubts about your sexuality or masculinity or reluctance to be examined for medical procedures. You may hesitate to report the assault to law enforcement for fear of ridicule or fear that they won't believe you. The same feelings apply to telling other people you know and to finding appropriate resources and support. This is true even if you experienced the assault when you were very young and only now are realizing you need help.

You need to know that strong or weak; outgoing or withdrawn; gay, straight, or bisexual; old or young; whatever your physical appearance: you have done nothing that justifies this attack. At no point and under no circumstance does anyone have the right to violate or control another's body. Sexual assault is a crime of violence and power, not of lust or passion.

• You may need special support. There are several forms of help available to you:
• You can call a crisis line anonymously and request a male counselor
• You can request an older or male nurse to assist in your treatment at the hospital
• You can find a support group of male survivors to help you in your healing process

As a man, many factors or fears may influence your decision to report or not report to law enforcement. There are both advantages and disadvantages if you choose to report.

The advantages include:

• You may apply for Victims Crime Compensation
• The assailant may be caught and brought to trial
• Collection of medical evidence will be paid for by the Commonwealth of Virginia
• Your report may help protect others

The disadvantages include:

• You may be treated in an insensitive manner;
• You may not be believed;
• Prosecution is often unsuccessful.

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