Understanding Male Rape: Legal Recognition And Justice

Rape and sexual assault are serious issues that can affect anyone, regardless of gender. While the law recognises that men and boys can be victims of sexual assault, the legal definition of rape is more complex and varies across jurisdictions. In some countries, like the UK, the legal interpretation of rape is centred on penile penetration, effectively excluding women from committing the offence, regardless of their actions. This legal interpretation has significant implications for victims, particularly male victims who have experienced penetrative sexual assault by female perpetrators.

The legal definition of rape

Previously, the definition of rape was narrow and outdated, only including forcible male penile penetration of a female vagina. However, in 2017, the FBI Director Robert Mueller revised the definition to be more inclusive and accurate. The new definition recognises that rape can be committed by any gender of perpetrator and victim and that rape with an object can be as traumatic as penile-vaginal rape. It also acknowledges that many rapes are facilitated by drugs or alcohol, which can incapacitate the victim and render them unable to consent.

The ability of the victim to give consent must be determined in accordance with individual state statutes. For example, in some states, the legal definition of rape includes circumstances where the victim is under the legal custody of a government agency and the perpetrator is an employee of that agency, or if the victim is under the age of 20 and the perpetrator is their foster parent.

It is important to note that physical resistance is not required on the part of the victim to demonstrate a lack of consent. The updated definition of rape sends a message to survivors that their experiences are valid and to perpetrators that they will be held accountable. This change has led to more accurate reporting of rape nationwide and a better understanding of the crime.

Rape is a serious crime that can have profound and long-lasting impacts on survivors, including both physiological and psychological effects. It is crucial that survivors have access to support and resources to help them cope with their experiences and begin the healing process.

Sexual assault by a woman

Rape and sexual assault are crimes that can be committed by people of any gender. While most research indicates that rape disproportionately affects women, with the majority of people convicted of rape being men, it is important to recognize that men and boys can also be victims of sexual violence perpetrated by women.

In reality, sexual assault can have profound and long-lasting impacts on male survivors, just as it can on female survivors. Common experiences shared by male survivors of sexual assault include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, flashbacks, and eating disorders. They may also experience a sense of blame or shame, especially if they had physiological responses such as an erection or ejaculation during the assault. The disclosure of sexual assault by a woman can be particularly challenging for male survivors due to the pervasive cultural understanding that perpetrators of sexual violence are typically men.

However, studies and reports have shed light on the reality of sexual victimization by women. For example, a 2005 survey by the California Coalition Against Sexual Assault (CALCASA) found that one in three lesbian-identified participants had been sexually assaulted by a woman. Additionally, a CDC study discovered that approximately 1 in 21 men, or 4.8% of those surveyed, had been forced to penetrate someone else, typically an intimate partner or acquaintance. These findings disrupt the long-held view that sexual violence only flows in one direction.

It is important to recognize that sexual assault by a woman against a man or a boy is a real and underreported issue. Services and support systems must be equipped to handle these cases and provide help to male survivors, ensuring that they receive the assistance and validation they need.

Men's experiences of sexual assault

Men and boys can be victims of sexual assault, and they often face unique challenges due to social attitudes and stereotypes about masculinity. Many male survivors experience anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, flashbacks, and eating disorders. They may also struggle with feelings of shame, self-doubt, and confusion, especially if they experienced physiological responses such as erections or ejaculations during the assault, which can be manipulated by perpetrators to maintain secrecy.

The sense of blame and shame is common among male survivors, who may believe they should have been "strong enough" to fight off the perpetrator. They may also find it difficult to disclose their experiences due to fears of judgment, disbelief, or not being understood. Stereotypes about masculinity can make it challenging for men to seek support from friends, family, or their community.

Over 90% of child and teen survivors know the perpetrator who abused or assaulted them, and among adult survivors of rape, 80% know the perpetrator. This can further complicate the disclosure process, as survivors may have complex feelings about the perpetrator, especially if they were in a position of trust or care.

Male survivors of sexual assault may also question their sexuality after the incident, which is understandable given the trauma they have endured. It is important to note that sexual assault is not related to the sexual orientation of either the perpetrator or the survivor, and a person's sexual orientation cannot be changed or influenced by sexual abuse or assault.

Supporting male survivors of sexual assault requires giving them undivided attention, validating their feelings, and expressing concern and care. It is crucial to avoid making overly positive statements or trying to manage their emotions. Instead, focus on statements that convey belief and acknowledgment of their struggles.

Emotional responses to sexual assault

Experiencing sexual assault can be traumatizing for most survivors, and they may exhibit a wide range of emotional responses. It is important to remember that there is no "right" or "wrong" way to feel or react, and every individual will have their own unique response.

Immediately after an assault, survivors may go into shock, appearing calm and composed, or they may express their feelings outwardly by crying, shaking, yelling, or even laughing. Many survivors experience fear and confusion, and may have difficulty answering questions, remembering details, or understanding new information. Some may feel intense fear of injury or death, while others may feel scared without showing it.

In the long term, survivors may struggle with various emotional and psychological issues. They may be unable to stop thinking about the assault, or they may forget entire parts of it. They may constantly second-guess themselves, thinking about what they could have done differently. Nightmares, flashbacks, and eating disorders are also common. Other issues that may arise include physical changes, changes in sexuality, substance abuse, self-harm, thoughts of suicide, anger, and mood disorders such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Many survivors of sexual assault feel a sense of blame or shame, especially if they experienced physiological responses such as an erection or ejaculation during the assault. They may withdraw from relationships and friendships, leading to increased isolation. The stigma surrounding male survivors of sexual assault can make it even more challenging for men to disclose their experiences, as they may fear judgment or disbelief, or worry about conforming to stereotypes about masculinity.

It is crucial for friends and family members of survivors to provide support and understanding. Listening without judgment, validating their feelings, and expressing concern can be helpful. It is important to avoid making overly positive statements or trying to manage the survivor's emotions. Instead, offer statements like, "I believe you" or "I am here for you." Encourage the survivor to seek professional help if needed, and remember that healing is possible, and they deserve to feel good again.

Support for male survivors

Male survivors of sexual assault face unique challenges, including stereotypes about masculinity, and may respond differently depending on whether the abuse occurred during childhood or adulthood. Common experiences shared by male survivors include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, flashbacks, and eating disorders, as well as a sense of blame or shame and withdrawal from relationships.

• RAINN (Rape, Abuse Incest National Network): RAINN operates a National Sexual Assault Hotline and provides resources specifically for men and boys who have experienced sexual assault. They address issues such as physiological responses during assault, fears of judgement or disbelief, and the impact of stereotypes about masculinity on disclosure.
• National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC): NSVRC offers a range of services and resources for male survivors of sexual violence, including podcasts, webinars, training modules, and a support forum. They also provide tools for sexual assault advocates and rape crisis centers to enhance their capacity to serve male survivors effectively. NSVRC addresses the complexities of the "male survivor" identity and the importance of trauma-informed care.
• Just Detention International (JDI): JDI is a health and human rights organization focused on ending sexual abuse in detention settings. They advocate for incarcerated survivors, addressing economic barriers and racial justice issues. JDI holds government officials accountable for prisoner rape and challenges misperceptions that enable sexual abuse.
• MaleSurvivor: This organization provides a moderated support forum and chat service for male survivors of sexual violence. Topics include recovering from sexual trauma, LGBTQ+ survivor issues, and military survivors.
• SurvivorsUK: Based in the UK, SurvivorsUK offers professional training on providing services to male survivors of sexual abuse and rape. They aim to break the silence surrounding male sexual abuse and provide training to individuals and organizations.
• 1in6: This organization helps men who have experienced unwanted or abusive sexual experiences to lead healthier and happier lives. They also provide support and resources to family members, friends, partners, and service providers.

Frequently asked questions