Male Victims of Rape: An Observational Study over Four Years in Paris, France

Abstract

Sexual violence is a common and under-reported form of violence that affects all categories of individuals. We sought to provide epidemiological data on men aged 15 years and over, victims of rape or suspecting a rape, and who reported it to the police. We conducted a retrospective study at the Department of Forensic Medicine of Hôtel-Dieu, Paris, France, between 2018 and 2021. Two-hundred men were included in the study, with an average age of 28.8 years. A vulnerability was mentioned for 17.5% of them. Most of the patients reported anal penetration, committed by a single male assailant, whom they met on the day of the assault. More than 60% of the patients reported the voluntary consumption of alcohol and/or illicit substances prior to the assault. Most patients were examined shortly after the assault (median 1 day). Anal lesions were found on examination in 37.0% of patients reporting anal penetration regardless of the time frame. The presence of anal lesions was statistically higher when patients were examined within 48 h. Our results reinforce the data in the literature on the risk factors associated with sexual violence among men, notably the consumption of alcohol and illicit substances, and psychological, economic, and social vulnerability.

Drug‐facilitated sexual assault in Africa: A scoping review of empirical evidence

“…The experience of secondary victimization in the form of victim blame and other adverse reactions is more intense for male rape victims, mostly due to (culturally) normative concerns [23]. More attention, although deserving, over the years has focused on female rape [24][25][26], with men as the major predators-when the "predator" is preyed on, it is a "complicated" event not easily conceivable by many [27]. To find some reporting to the clinic in South Africa is highly commendable and a recommended best practice to access appropriate care.…”

Male Victims of Sexual Abuse: Impact and Resilience Processes, a Qualitative Study

“…Few studies investigate male resilience, especially within a French context. In France, approximately 16.1% of men report having been victims of rape or attempted rape [ 25 ]. Nevertheless, male sexual abuse is known to be widely underreported.…”

“…Although changes in French legislation slowly allow for better recognition of rape and sexual assault, the taboo surrounding male sexual abuse remains strong. In addition, professionals lack information regarding the care of victims [ 25 ]. Therefore, to pursue reflections on resilience, this research will attempt to describe the impact of sexual abuse on the lives of men who endured it, and to identify other factors promoting resilience.…”