“Honey, We Don't Do Men”: Gender Stereotypes and the Provision of Services to Sexually Assaulted Males

Abstract

This research examines the effects of gender role stereotypes on the provision of services to adult, noninstitutionalized male victims of sexual assault. Thirty sexual assault crisis providers in a major Southeastern city participated in in-depth interviews focusing on their experiences with male sexual assault victims, their attitudes toward these men, and the services provided by their organizations. Although official reports of male sexual assault victims are relatively uncommon, our research confirms that male victims do exist and that they are more numerous than official statistics indicate. Moreover, our findings suggest that traditional gender role stereotypes, lack of responsiveness to male victims, and gaps in service provision prevent sexually assaulted men from getting the help they need.