It may be extremely difficult for male survivors to come forward given the stigmas relating to sexual assault. There is a common misconception that men cannot be victims of sexual assault and that simply is NOT true!
The reality is, one in ten men will be victims of a sexual assault in their lifetime.
About 3% of American men - or 1 in 33 - have experienced an attempted or completed rape in their lifetime.
How to Support Male Survivors:
- Survivors struggle with fears of being understood or believed.
- Validate their feelings and provide a safe space for them to share what they are thinking and feeling.
- Express sincere concern and listen in a non-judgmental way.
- Do not ask for details of their assault if they have not decided to openly share them with you.
- Encourage them to seek additional supports such as the Union County Rape Crisis Center or any of the sites below:
New Jersey Coalition Against Sexual Assault