While male sexual assault is being increasingly recognized as a public health issue, it continues to be underreported and unrecognized. A study published in a recent issue of Violence and Victims presents the results of a population-based study conducted on 705 adult men in the state of Virginia. Researchers found a lifetime prevalence of 12.9% in sexual assault among men, with 94% assaulted for the first time before the age of 18. Statistical analysis showed that male victims of sexual violence were 3.4 times more likely to be depressed and 2.4 times more likely have suicidal thoughts (only 15.4% sought counseling however). This study confirms that male sexual assault is a prevalent problem. The researchers also concluded that victimized men were more likely to be depressed and have suicidal thoughts and yet did not seek health services. Clinicians and social agencies need to make a greater effort to identify and treat male victims of sexual assault.
While male sexual assault is being increasingly recognized as a public health issue, it continues to be underreported and unrecognized. A study published in a recent issue of Violence and Victims presents the results of a population-based study conducted on 705 adult men in the state of Virginia. Researchers found a lifetime prevalence of 12.9% in sexual assault among men, with 94% assaulted for the first time before the age of 18. Statistical analysis showed that male victims of sexual violence were 3.4 times more likely to be depressed and 2.4 times more likely have suicidal thoughts (only 15.4% sought counseling however). This study confirms that male sexual assault is a prevalent problem. The researchers also concluded that victimized men were more likely to be depressed and have suicidal thoughts and yet did not seek health services. Clinicians and social agencies need to make a greater effort to identify and treat male victims of sexual assault.
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