ABSTRACT

Sexual assault remains a disturbing and persistent global social problem. The term sexual assault includes a wide swath of criminal behavior: forced sexual activity (anal, vaginal, oral), non-consensual touching, and sexual harassment. These actions not only encompass “offline” behaviors, but also online activities designed to victimize others (e.g., revenge porn). A substantial amount of research continues to indicate that women are more likely to experience these events than are men. However, men are not immune from experiencing sexual assault, and yet they are rarely the focus of research on the topic. Fortunately, the sparse existing research has underscored the prevalence and seriousness of male sexual assault. Moving forward, it remains exceedingly important that survivors of all demographic backgrounds be recognized in the movement to address sexual violence.