Men at risk: Understanding sexual health and the impact of harassment and assault

When we talk about men's health, particularly sexual health, the conversation often veers toward physical well-being, reproductive capabilities, or the prevention of diseases. However, an often-overlooked aspect of men's sexual health is their emotional, psychological, and social vulnerabilities, particularly in the context of sexual harassment and assault.

Despite the prevailing cultural norms that paint men as strong, stoic, and less prone to victimization, many men experience sexual harassment and assault, though it is a topic less frequently discussed or acknowledged.

The stigma surrounding men's sexual health

Sexual health isn't just about physical aspects such as fertility, libido, or the absence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It encompasses the psychological and emotional facets of sexuality, and for many men, societal expectations make it difficult to openly discuss sexual vulnerabilities.

In numerous cultures, men are socialised to believe that they should always be sexually assertive, that they should enjoy all sexual advances, and that they should never experience sexual harm. These harmful stereotypes contribute to the stigma surrounding men's sexual health issues. For instance, discussing erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, or a lack of sexual desire is often seen as taboo, even though these issues are common.

When men feel pressured to meet unrealistic sexual standards or to fulfill rigid masculine roles, their mental health can suffer. This, in turn, affects their sexual health, creating a cycle where shame, guilt, or frustration hinders the pursuit of help and solutions.

Sexual harassment and assault: A hidden epidemic among men

Sexual harassment and assault are usually framed as issues that primarily affect women, but men are also victims. Research indicates that one in six men will experience some form of sexual abuse or assault in their lifetime. Yet, the cultural narrative around male victimhood is often minimised, ignored, or even ridiculed, making it difficult for male survivors to come forward.

The underreporting of sexual assault by men can be attributed to several factors. The perception of masculinity often discourages men from admitting that they have been victimised, especially if the perpetrator is a woman.

There is also a fear of not being believed or being shamed, as some believe that men cannot or should not be able to say no to sex. Moreover, when men are sexually assaulted by other men, especially in institutional settings like prisons, the associated homophobia and stigma can make it even more difficult to disclose these experiences.

Understanding male vulnerability to sexual harassment

Sexual harassment is not limited to physical acts; it also includes verbal harassment, unwanted sexual advances, and inappropriate comments or behaviours in the workplace or other social environments.

Men, particularly those in vulnerable job roles, can experience sexual harassment but may be less likely to report it due to the fear of appearing weak or losing respect in professional or personal spaces.

In corporate or hierarchical environments, men may be subjected to power dynamics where superiors, regardless of gender, take advantage of their authority. This can manifest as pressure for sexual favors in exchange for promotions or using inappropriate humor and innuendos to degrade or humiliate male employees.

Moreover, sexual harassment in public settings - such as groping or inappropriate touching - is also a reality for many men. Male victims often internalize such experiences because society often dismisses or even jokes about their trauma. The notion that men should be "grateful" for any form of sexual attention, particularly from women, reinforces toxic attitudes that silence male victims.

The psychological impact of sexual assault on men

The psychological and emotional consequences of sexual harassment and assault on men are profound. Victims may experience anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and a loss of self-esteem.

The social isolation that comes with these experiences can be overwhelming, particularly when societal norms discourage men from seeking help. Male survivors often grapple with confusion about their identity and masculinity, especially if they were taught that they should be impervious to victimisation.

The shame and guilt that men feel following sexual assault or harassment can be compounded by a lack of support. Many men hesitate to seek professional help, fearing judgment or disbelief from therapists who might not be trained to handle male victims. As a result, these men may struggle silently, which can lead to substance abuse, anger issues, and even suicidal thoughts.

Addressing the barriers to reporting and support

One of the primary barriers to addressing sexual harassment and assault among men is the lack of open dialogue. Men need to be encouraged to speak about their experiences without fear of being labeled as weak, emasculated, or complicit in their victimisation. By changing the narrative around male sexual victimisation, society can create a more supportive environment for men to seek help.

• Institutions, from workplaces to educational settings, must implement more inclusive policies that acknowledge male victims.
• Training programs on sexual harassment need to address the experiences of men just as much as those of women, ensuring that victims of all genders feel safe to come forward.
• Additionally, law enforcement agencies and healthcare providers should be educated on how to sensitively and effectively respond to male victims of sexual assault.
• Support systems, such as male-focused hotlines and peer support groups, can offer a safe space for men to share their experiences.

Male survivors of sexual violence can benefit from community-building efforts where they don't feel alone or ostracised. Moreover, mental health professionals should be trained to recognise the unique ways in which sexual trauma can manifest in men, creating tailored treatment plans that address the complex interplay of identity, masculinity, and trauma recovery.

Deconstructing toxic masculinity

At the heart of many of the challenges related to men's sexual health and their experiences of harassment and assault lies the concept of toxic masculinity. This cultural idea, which promotes aggression, emotional suppression, and the belief that men must always be dominant, plays a major role in how men perceive themselves and their vulnerability.

Deconstructing toxic masculinity is essential in improving men's sexual health and their ability to seek help. This requires education that teaches young boys that vulnerability is not weakness and that experiencing sexual trauma is not a reflection of their manhood. By fostering an environment where emotional expression is valued and accepted, society can help boys grow into men who are in touch with their emotions and capable of seeking support when needed.

Moving toward a more inclusive conversation

Addressing men's sexual health and vulnerabilities requires an ongoing conversation that challenges outdated norms about masculinity. This includes recognising that men, too, can be victims of sexual harassment and assault and that their experiences are valid and worthy of support.

By providing comprehensive sexual education, supporting male survivors, and dismantling harmful stereotypes, we can create a world where men's sexual health is prioritised not only in terms of physical well-being but in emotional and psychological dimensions as well.

When men feel empowered to speak about their vulnerabilities without fear of stigma, we will have taken an important step toward true sexual equality and health for all.

Also Read: Comprehensive sex education: Building safer, inclusive communities

Conclusion

Men's sexual health is about more than just physical wellness; it encompasses mental, emotional, and social health. By confronting the stigma around men's sexual vulnerabilities and addressing the reality of sexual harassment and assault, society can support men in their journey to holistic sexual health. Open dialogue, inclusive policies, and a dismantling of harmful stereotypes will help pave the way toward a safer, more supportive environment for all men.

Prof. Dr. Rajan Bhonsle, M.D. is a Senior Sex Therapist and Counsellor from Mumbai, practicing for more than 35 years. He is a Hon. Professor and Head of the Department of Sexual Medicine at K.E.M.Hospital and G.S.Medical College Mumbai.

The views expressed here are the individual's and don't represent those of the paper.