Hiding in Plain Sight: Male Sexual Abuse

While many studies concerning children and women that have been sexually abused have been done, the study of males that have been sexually abused is still grossly inadequate. A first-hand look at the most under reported crime against males, including long term effects, treatments, and resources available will be discussed. The statistics are staggering. The numbers of males that are sexually abused every year in America are comparable to those of females. The number of males that develop PTSD as a direct result of the childhood sexual abuse is almost twice that for military combat veterans. The drug and alcohol abuse are many times the national average. The same is true of suicide committed by males that have endured sexual abuse as children.

In his presentation Greg will delve deep into the numbers, effects, treatments, and resources for males that have been violated. He will discuss why you should be aware of this silent epidemic, because as the title of the presentation suggests, these men are hiding in plain sight. The number of young men on our campuses is staggering. While the numbers and information are extremely important, the biggest takeaway is his willingness to share his past in total honesty in hope of creating a better understanding and willingness to openly discuss this last great social taboo.

Goals

The expected outcome will be that participants will gain an understanding of the typical short term and long term effects on males that were sexually abused. They will also gain a better understanding of how to counsel males while being mindful of possible triggers. They will be able to list different resources for victims, friends, family, and workers to help in dealing and coping with sexual trauma. A list of websites, books, videos, and networks will be provided for reference.

About the Presenter

Greg Holtmeyer, Executive Director of The Phoenix Project, is an educator, advocate, and survivor. His passion is to create awareness concerning the devastating effects of childhood sexual abuse. Greg created The Phoenix Project to offer hope, education, support, and inspiration for those who are on their healing journey from sexual and physical abuse. He has done presentations for small community based organizations to large state wide and national organizations. He gives voice and attention to the many male victims of sexual crimes who are waiting for support and understanding. People that have attended one of his presentations have used the words "powerful speaker", makes this difficult topic approachable", "provides hope for recovery to those who have suffered", "very privileged to have the opportunity to hear your story", and "very mature and articulate in his message.”