In the absence of face-to-face services, male survivors of childhood sexual abuse are increasingly turning to specialist websites for support as a way to safely break the silence and begin the healing process.

This is the conclusion of research by Duncan Craig, Founder of and Service Director for Survivors Manchester, which was presented on Saturday 7 May, at the 17th Annual BACP Research Conference. The event, which was co-hosted bythe Society for Psychotherapy Research (SPR) UK, took place at the Liverpool Marriott Hotel City Centre, Liverpool, on 6-7 May 2011.

The study revealed three main overriding reasons why online resources were being used. These were: the use of online anonymity to discuss issues, often shrouded in shame, that participants find difficult to discuss face-to-face in an offline environment; the importance of being able to connect with others that have had similar experiences to one's own that allow one to feel less isolated, whilst still retaining a level of anonymity; and most interestingly, and contradicting the need for anonymity, the fact that there is little or no face-to-face or offline alternative to online support as a male survivor of childhood sexual abuse.

The research found that 73% of participants stated they still use the site they originally found citing "sharing takes away the loneliness"; "I feel I learn from others experiences"; "I would be dead without the support I receive". Whilst 87% of people found that specialist sites helped - "Put me in contact with others to begin breaking the isolation", and "allowing me to discuss online with fellow survivors things I couldn't talk to my friends and family about."

Duncan Craig said: "Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is one of the most under-reported crimes worldwide, especially if the victim is male. Unable to speak out, many boys carry this 'secret' into adulthood, remaining silent through the use of maladaptive coping mechanisms.

"This study has found that although some male survivors desire face-to-face support in their healing at some point, the Internet and specialist websites are providing an important step in the healing journey. Providing that websites are both functional, informative, inclusive and easy to navigate, male survivors of CSA are beginning their healing journey using the internet and online resources. Further research in the areas of help for male survivors and use of technology in men's health has to be explored."

Source:
British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy