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Male victims of sexual and physical assault often face significant barriers when deciding whether to report their experiences. Cultural expectations surrounding masculinity can create pressure for men to appear strong, independent, and able to defend themselves. When victimization occurs, these expectations may lead to feelings of shame, confusion, or fear of being judged. As a result, male victimization is widely believed to be underreported compared to other forms of violence.

Traditional ideas about masculinity can discourage men from acknowledging vulnerability or victimization. Many boys and men are socialized to believe that strength means emotional control and self-reliance. When assault occurs, victims may feel that admitting harm contradicts these expectations. This conflict can discourage disclosure and delay seeking support.

Source:

• APA Guidelines for Psychological Practice with Boys and Men

Male survivors may worry that others will question their credibility or masculinity if they report an assault. Some fear ridicule, disbelief, or being blamed for what happened. These concerns can be particularly strong in cases involving sexual assault, where stereotypes about male strength and sexuality may influence public perceptions. Fear of social judgment can therefore act as a powerful deterrent to reporting.

Source:

• RAINN – Victims of Sexual Violence Statistics

Because of stigma and social barriers, many cases involving male victims are never reported to law enforcement. Researchers suggest that official crime statistics may significantly underestimate the prevalence of male victimization. Low reporting rates can also affect resource allocation and public awareness. Increasing recognition of male victims may help improve reporting and access to support.

Source:

• CDC – Sexual Violence Facts