The Male Survivor

The Impact of Sexual Abuse

This landmark study examines the largest clinical sample to date of male survivors of sexual abuse in childhood. Using data from his nationwide North American survey, the author reveals that such abuse is extensive, thus dispelling myths regarding the invulnerability of males.

Mendel argues that various societal myths have led to a profound under-recognition of male childhood sexual abuse. He proposes that increased attention to, and acknowledgement of, male victimization is needed in order to reduce both the stigma and isolation of male survivors and the incidence of abuse. The author also suggests modifications to conceptual frameworks related to the long-term impact of childhood sexual abuse to apply specifically to male survivors.