Question: How often do men experience sexual violence?
One out of seven males experience sexual violence in their lifetime. Sexual violence can happen to anyone, and be perpetrated by anyone, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. Men oftentimes feel minimized or targeted in the conversation about rape prevention when, in reality, men and boys who have experienced child sexual abuse, sexual assault, or rape, face challenges unique to their gender. Most men do not come forward until an average of 20 years after their most recent assault for many reasons such as shame, confusion, and fear of not being believed. If something happened to you, know that you are not alone. Call Planned Parenthood’s sexual assault hotline: 1-877-212-2323.
Deirdre Loftus is a Sexual Assault Prevention Educator serving Paul Smith’s. She works for Planned Parenthood raising awareness about New York State’s “Enough is Enough” legislation. She has previously been as a Sexual Assault Counselor and Community Educator in Essex County.