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Effects of Rape on Men: A Descriptive Analysis

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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.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, University of Central Lancashire, Lancashire, England

    Jayne Walker B.Sc., John Archer Ph.D. & Michelle Davies Ph.D.

  2. Department of Psychology, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 2HE, England

    Michelle Davies Ph.D.

Authors
  1. Jayne Walker B.Sc.
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  2. John Archer Ph.D.
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  3. Michelle Davies Ph.D.
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Correspondence to Michelle Davies Ph.D..

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Walker, J., Archer, J. & Davies, M. Effects of Rape on Men: A Descriptive Analysis. Arch Sex Behav 34, 69–80 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10508-005-1001-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10508-005-1001-0

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