Understanding Male Childhood Sexual Abuse: Consequences and Considerations

This paper reviews current literature on the effects of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) on adult males and how such experiences can affect relational functioning. By taking a developmental approach to understanding childhood sexual abuse, this paper conceptualizes male CSA to reveal that it can impact development throughout the lifespan, particularly in regards to the formation of intimate partner and father/child relationships. This article provides clinical implications for working with male survivors and focuses on three main concepts: instilling hope, developing a sense of self, and personal meaning making.