Characteristics
Observed In Male Sexual Abuse Victims
by
Ken Singer, LCSW
Denial of
Vulnerability
Difficulty recognizing that what happened was sexual abuse. High need
for control in interactions with others. May appear stubborn and rigid for control in
interactions with others and frequently engage in power struggles, or seem passive,
codependent and conforming. Both are protection from feelings of vulnerability.
Confusion Regarding Sexual Orientation
Orientation is exhibited in many ways. Some men claim heterosexuality
but are sexual with other men. Some homosexual men question their orientation and wonder
how they might be different had they not been abused. Other men may not engage in any
sexual behaviors with males or females and are unable to determine their sexual
orientation.
Confusion of Emotional Needs With Sex
Needs for nurturance may be identified as sexual. Many needs may have
been met through the sexual abuse and sex continues to be viewed as the only way to be
cared for. Real relationships with other men and women are often seen as threatening and
sexual behavior may actually be one of the few ways to relate superficially and still have
some needs met. Societal norms encourage men to equate sexual prowess with personal value
and discourage direct expression of emotional needs. Some men become "Don Juans"
or give the impression they are "superstuds" as a way of proving to themselves
and the world that they are not gay or weak because of their victimization histories.
Gender Shame
Confusion and anxiety regarding masculine identity. Extremely
uncomfortable around other men. Does not like to be touched by men and often avoids
situations where he may be seen unclothed. Because he does not feel part of the group, he
is often isolated with few male friends. Shame is especially powerful regarding feelings
about masculinity. "Real men" don't get abused, they can protect themselves.
Internalized male models are shaming or nonexistent. May exhibit more feminine
characteristics as an attempt to separate from negative masculine image or to avoid
identifying with the male abuser.
Multiple Compulsive Behaviors
Sex, food, chemicals and work are examples of common compulsive
behaviors used to satisfy an internal drive to continually push oneself to avoid feeling
pain and to meet dependency needs but is not productive or helpful.
Physical and Emotional Symptoms
Hypertension and frequent chest pains. Recurring dreams or nightmares
of being chased or attacked, choked or stabbed. Difficulty urinating in public restrooms.
Depression and anxiety.
Pattern of Victimizing Self or Others
Most victims do not become offenders. Many dysfunctional behaviors may
be seen as an attempt to feel more powerful, punish oneself or numb the unwanted feelings
connected with the abuse. This may involve passive-aggressive behaviors or subtle
put-downs. Some men, act out by exposing, obscene phone calling or voyeuristic activities.
Anger toward self can involve suicide attempts or putting oneself in a high risk
situations which could lead to injury or death without actually attempting suicide. Victim
may react to a current situation as if it were similar to the childhood abuse experience.
Victim feels powerless and cannot see the current situation for what it is. Coping
mechanisms mimic survival means used during childhood. May actually become involved in
abusive relationships as an adult that are in many ways similar to the childhood sexual
abuse experience.
Boundary Transparency
Unrealistic fear that others can see their failures and vulnerability.
They fear they can do nothing to protect themselves. This inability to protect self and
feeling unsafe can result in difficulty establishing even minimal trust. Other reactions
include anxiety, rage and withdrawal. May have a history of boundary intrusions other than
sexual abuse, especially physical and emotional abuse.
Chaotic Relationships
Many difficulties around intimacy, autonomy (self-sufficiency) and
commitment to a relationship. Extreme and intense swings in needs for closeness and
distance with others. The need to be cared for and have dependency needs met is in
conflict with fear of vulnerability and re-victimization. This behavior repeats the
victim-perpetrator experience with the partner when that person alternately becomes a
perpetrator and a protector.
Poorly Defined Sense of Self
Self protection has resulted in
submersion of self with little internal locus of control. Behaviors are similar to
codependency. Importance placed on attempts to avoid feelings of confusion and
vulnerability.
Courtesy of Ken Singer, LCSW
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