The Sexual Abuse of Boys and Men

Male victims of sexual abuse remain hidden, ignored, dismissed, misunderstood, ridiculed and above all else, neglected. Boys and men are less likely to be identified as victims, less likely to recognise they have been abused, less likely to disclose and less likely to engage with services. This book addresses the many issues and disadvantages uniquely and disproportionately facing male victims, and will explore how environmental factors (nurture) and biological factors (nature) play a part. The book will also explore how to adapt practice making it more male-friendly, and it will provide examples of how to use therapeutic approaches with male victims whilst utilising, rather than demonising, elements of masculinity. "This book should be read by all family agencies and everyone interested in the abuse of men. Men have been overlooked as victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse since it became an issue in 1971 when the first refuge for women and children was opened. Finally, 50 years later there is a voice for men." Erin Pizzey, international founder of the refuge movement for all victims of generational family violence "This unique guide covers everything from challenges posed by professional bias and legislation, to how concepts of masculinity prevent (but can also aid) best practice. This is an invaluable resource for any practitioner working with young males suspected to be vulnerable to, or being sexually exploited. There really is nothing quite like it in the field!" Adele Gladman, Independent Safeguarding Children Trainer and Consultant and co-author of Child Sexual Exploitation After Rotherham' "This important work presents a comprehensive and sensitive view of male victims, their journey to recovery and recommendations for those that wish to support them. Providing a valuable source to victims, students and professional partitioners alike. Highly recommended." Deborah Powney, Lecturer in Professional Policing & Criminology - UCLan, BSc, MSc, PhD Candidate (Psychology) "This is a much needed and "must read" book by someone who knows what he's talking about both as a survivor and a highly experienced practitioner in the field of sexual abuse. The power of this book is that it combines hard scientific data with real life stories. I can't recommend this book highly enough for anyone interested in the human condition and in particular what life is like for our most vulnerable males." Martin Seager, Consultant Clinical Psychologist / Adult Psychotherapist