MODULE 1 INTERAGENCY GENDERBASED VIOLENCE CASE MANAGEMENT TRAINING
MODULE 1 INTERAGENCY GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE CASE MANAGEMENT TRAINING
Module 17 B GBV CASE MANAGEMENT WITH MALE SURVIVORS OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE
- Understand the barriers faced by male survivors of sexual violence OBJECTIVES - Identify different communication techniques to support male survivors - Be able to provide survivorcentered services to male survivors
INTRODUCTION • Men and boys also at risk for sexual violence • In humanitarian settings often committed by other men in context of armed conflict or ethnic violence – used to disempower and shame men, families and communities • Boys at risk for child sexual abuse – similar to girls – most likely perpetrated by men known to the child / family. • Many similar barriers to care – but also particular barriers that must be considered to provide compassionate and relevant care
ACTIVITY: MALE SURVIVORS In small groups, brainstorm some of the challenges faced by male survivors in seeking services. How can we address these challenges?
BARRIERS TO CARE Traditional masculine norms do not promote help-seeking. Feelings of shame and fear of stigma. Regardless of the gender of the perpetrator, male survivors may be grappling with what their experience of sexual violence means for their gender identity and sexual orientation.
BARRIERS TO CARE Concerns and fears about sexuality. This can be a significant barrier to help-seeking in societies that police or criminalize homosexuality. Fear of not being believed. Risk for substance abuse. Using alcohol or other drugs as a way to manage or numb emotions may be even more common among male survivors because of norms that often discourage men from acknowledging and expressing emotion.
PROVIDING CARE AND SUPPORT Do not make assumptions about the person and their experience. You should never assume the sexual orientation or gender identity of the survivor. Even if the person seems to be asking you to tell them whether they are gay, explain that this something that you cannot do for them. Many male survivors may be in denial about what they experienced and may not be ready to identify as a “victim, ” a “survivor” or someone who has experienced a “trauma. ” Respect the language that they use to describe themselves and their experience. Validate and reaffirm their strength. Just as with other survivors, it is important for male to survivors to hear that they were brave and strong to come for help.
PROVIDING CARE AND SUPPORT Communicate that they are not alone. This can help reduce self-blame or thoughts they may be having about whether they did to provoke the assault. Reassure the person that their reactions are normal. Male survivors may need to hear in particular that feelings such as sadness and fear—which traditional masculine norms don’t allow men to feel or express—are normal. Do not be judgmental about substance abuse. It is important that you understand that this is one of their ways of coping, even though it may be harmful to them and others in their lives.
ACTIVITY: PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER In small groups discuss the case study. Be prepared to share your discussion with the large group. b
CLOSING QUESTIONS? CONCERNS? REFLECTIONS?
- Slides: 11