Myths about male rape and Military Sexual Trauma

There are numerous frequently accepted myths about male rape and in all probability more so than there are about female rape. These myths have the effect of minimizing the gravity of the crime, and the accountability of the perpetrator.

These myths about male rape also have an effect on the way men think about themselves when they have been assaulted, and, sadly, the way those men are treated by many other individuals.

Understanding the facts about male rape can give the male rape victim the strength to counteract their fears and, we hope, will enable more men to ask for the information and counseling support that they so rightly ought to have. Knowing what are the myths and facts about male rape, may also help others understand how to respond to those male rape victims.

Here are a few of the facts about, and some of the most frequent myths about male rape and men who are raped.

Read them all at the link.

More

The National Centre for Victims of Crime has this report on “Male Rape” that gives these shocking statistics:

• About 3% of American men – a total of 2.78 million men – have experienced a rape at some point in their lifetime (Tjaden & Thoennes, 2006).
• In 2003, one in every ten rape victims was male. While there are no reliable annual surveys of sexual assaults on children, the Justice Department has estimated that one of six victims are under age 12 (National Crime Victimization Study, 2003).
• 71% of male victims were first raped before their 18th birthday; 16.6% were 18-24 years old, and 12.3% were 25 or older (Tjaden & Thoennes, 2006).
• Males are the least likely to report a sexual assault, though it is estimated that they make up 10% of all victims (RAINN, 2006).
• 22% of male inmates have been raped at least once during their incarceration; roughly 420,000 prisoners each year (Human Rights Watch, 2001).

The report elaborates:

Nicholas Groth, a clinical psychologist and author of Men Who Rape: The Psychology of the Offender, says all sexual assault is an act of aggression, regardless of the gender or age of the victim or the assailant. Neither sexual desire nor sexual deprivation is the primary motivating force behind sexual assault. It is not about sexual gratification, but rather a sexual aggressor using somebody else as a means of expressing their own power and control.

Much has been written about the psychological trauma associated with the rape of female victims. While less research has been conducted about male rape victims, case research suggests that males also commonly experience many of the reactions that females experience. These reactions include: depression, anger, guilt, self-blame, sexual dysfunctions, flashbacks, and suicidal feelings (Isley, 1991). Other problems facing males include an increased sense of vulnerability, damaged self-image and emotional distancing (Mezey & King, 1989). Male rape victims not only have to confront unsympathetic attitudes if they choose to press charges, they also often hear unsupportive statements from their friends, family and acquaintances (Brochman, 1991). People will tend to fault the male victim instead of the rapist. Stephen Donaldson, president of Stop Prisoner Rape (a national education and advocacy group), says that the suppression of knowledge of male rape is so powerful and pervasive that criminals such as burglars and robbers sometimes rape their male victims as a sideline solely to prevent them from going to the police.

There are many reasons that male victims do not come forward and report being raped, but perhaps the biggest reason for many males is the fear of being perceived as homosexual. However, male sexual assault has nothing to do with the sexual orientation of the attacker or the victim, just as a sexual assault does not make the victim survivor gay, bisexual or heterosexual. It is a violent crime that affects heterosexual men as much as gay men. The phrase “homosexual rape,” for instance, which is often used by uninformed persons to designate male-male rape, camouflages the fact that the majority of the rapists are not generally homosexual (Donaldson, 1990).

 More

Male Rape

Facts about Men and Rape

• Men get raped by other men and even women
• Rapists who rape men are heterosexual in 98% of the cases
• Both homosexual and heterosexual men get raped
• In all parts of society (not just in prisons)
• Men are less likely to report rape

Most of us grow up thinking that rape happens only to women.
If male rape survivors think so too, they may feel isolated and alone.
If people in our community believe that, they may further this sense of isolation on the part of male rape survivors.
Men usually share many of the same feelings of female sexual assault survivors. They may feel:

• guilty
• powerless
• concern regarding their safety
• denial
• shock
• anger

There are, however, special issues that may be different for men:

• concerns about sexuality and/or masculinity
• medical procedures
• reporting to law enforcement
• telling others
• finding resources and support

Strong or weak, outgoing or withdrawn, homosexual or heterosexual, old or young, male or female; no one does anything that justifies sexual assault.

Myths about Men and Rape

No matter what was said or done or worn, no one "asks for" or deserves to be assaulted. Sexual assault has nothing to do with someone's present or future sexual orientation. Sexual assault is a crime of violence and power, not of lust or passion.
Unfortunately, many doctors, nurses, and law enforcement officers do not realize that men as well as women may be sexually assaulted. This may affect the way they treat men who have been raped. Sometimes a stereotyped view of masculinity, rather than the physical assault of the crime becomes the focus of the medical exam or law enforcement investigation.
Two myths about homosexuality may also affect the way men are treated. Many people wrongly believe that only gay men get raped. Many people also believe that assaults against men are committed only by gay men. Both of these are myths, not facts, but they may affect the way male rape survivors are treated, and/or how male survivors feel about the assault and themselves afterwards.

What Can We Do

• Recognize that men and boys can and will be sexually assaulted.
• Be aware of the biases and myths concerning sexual assault.
• Recognize that the harmful sex-role stereotypes which create narrow definitions of masculinity, as well as lies about homosexuality, make it difficult for male survivors to disclose about being raped.
• As individuals and as a community we must work to combat and challenge these attitudes.
• It is important that male rape survivors have support around them and that they be able to make their own decisions about what course of action to take.

 MALE RESPONSIBILITY FOR RAPE AND RAPE AWARENESS
Unfortunately, most men do not recognize that there is a problem here, and fewer still acknowledge responsibility for any part of it. As a result, rape is seen, if at all, as a "women's issue." The impression remains that men are in no way connected to sexual assault, neither in its occurrence, nor through its effects, nor by its causes.

ONE IN THREE WOMEN AND ONE IN SEVEN MEN... WHAT DOES THIS MEAN

It is important that men learn to see how this cultural reality by itself has great impact on our lives. Men are connected to this world in which women and men are assaulted and men are connected to the women who are forced to adjust their behavior accordingly. These connections--through the effects of sexual violence against women--should not be for men a "women's issue." As women are affected whether or not they are actually raped, men's lives are greatly changed whether or not they are actually assailants.

WHERE DO ALL THESE RAPISTS COME FROM?

Men rape. This Is Fact One, and no discussion of sexual assault should distract us from this reality. Historically, men have always denied and evaded Fact One. This is Fact Two, and no discussion of the causes of sexual assault should deflect us from this responsibility.
Recognition of reality and acknowledgment of responsibility can come with great difficulty to most men. Evasions, denials, and defensiveness, however, miss the point and simply will no longer suffice.

SEXUAL OBJECTS MAKE SEXUAL TARGETS

The story of sexual assault in our culture is not just about rape. Rapist are not born, they are made. And remade. And the culture which makes "them" also makes "us."
The question of why some men rape is thus connected to the question of why sexual violence is tolerated. This connection exists at a double intersection: between attitudes and actions, between violence and notions of masculinity. Men are all connected to these intersections because this is where they have grown up as men.
Men have the power collectively to end rape.
Unfortunately, so far, this male collective appears to be composed mainly of men who rape, men who hold attitudes similar to rapists, and men who undoubtedly do care in their own personal lives, yet remain quiet in the community where rape occurs.
The raising of the question is far more important than its phrasing. Consider....,
HOW WOULD OUR LIVES BE DIFFERENT IF THERE WAS NO SEXUAL VIOLENCE?

HOW MEN CAN HELP PREVENT RAPE:

• examine your own attitudes about women and men that may reflect misconceptions about rape
• assertively interrupt jokes, comments or actions that lead to attitudes or situations that can cause rape
• assist women with precautions that decrease their chances of becoming victims
• support women's actions to take charge of their own lives; to be confident and strong
• listen to women's feelings about being victimized

ACTIONS MEN CAN TAKE:

• If a woman says "no" to your sexual advances, respect that "no" at face value. Do not accept the myth that "no" means "yes."
• In a dating or intimate relationship communicate clearly how you feel and what you want. Do not assume your date or partner feels the same way. Respect the other person's feelings and needs.
• Be aware of situations that increase a woman's vulnerability. How would you respond if you witnessed an intoxicated woman at a party being escorted by two or three men to a bedroom.
• Confront men who are harassing women on the street or at a party. Point out sexist comments and behavior with your friends and coworkers.
• Tell men that you do not think rape jokes are funny.

If you feel uncomfortable confronting other men on sexist issues, then get in touch with other men who share your views. Build your confidence in how you feel and learn how you can make an impact by being an example.

Whether or not WE as individuals are violent, WE support and encourage THE MEN who rape both by the actions that support a sexist society and the inaction that condones the violence. If WE work together to educate ourselves and THE MEN around us about the devastating effects of rape and sexual assault and how WE can eliminate the violence and sexist attitudes that precipitate rape WE can make it end.

LEARN TO RECOGNIZE EMOTIONS IN YOURSELF AND OTHERS

Violence generally does not erupt from nowhere. There are clues when anger is becoming unmanageable. The ways people handle their anger are divided into two general categories:

Stuffers:

Those who stuff anger down inside themselves and deny its presence, suffer feelings of low self esteem, and self doubt, intellectualize their situations. They become progressively withdrawn, depressed, tense, until it becomes too much and they explode in violence.

Escalators:

Escalators are easier to identify. They begin their sentences with "you." They blame and call names. Eventually their anger escalates into a blow-up and violence.

Identifying these signs early allows more options for change.

IMMEDIATE ALTERNATIVES TO VIOLENT BEHAVIOR

If you are feeling out of control with your anger and think you may hurt someone or yourself, you can do something immediately to squash the impulse and leave yourself better able to deal with problems:

• call someone
• meditate or do breathing exercises to relax
• take a cold shower, or relax in a hot bath
• work on a hobby
• go into another room and scream
• complete or begin projects around the house or yard
• take a "time out" and leave the scene completely for a designated time
• hit a pillow
• take a walk
• exercise

LIFESTYLE CHANGES TO MODIFY VIOLENT BEHAVIOR

• develop a daily decompression time from work to home
• establish regular family fun time
• develop a positive self-confidence so that you can be assertive rather than aggressive in communicating
• reduce the number of factors which reinforce violence in your life
• identify activities which produce a lot of stress in your life and work on eliminating or modifying those activities
• examine the addictions in your life which may increase the chance for violence
• develop good health habits: eating, sleeping well and daily exercise can make a difference
• develop fun time for yourself
• identify groups which may provide you with support in dealing with particular problems
• take self-help classes in communication, parent education, etc..
• think of long term changes you wish to make to decrease the stress in your life

Overview
Society is becoming increasingly aware of male rape. However, experts believe that current male rape statistics vastly under-represent the actual number of males age 12 and over who are raped each year. Rape crisis counselors estimate that while only one in 50 raped women report the crime to the police, the rates of under-reporting among men are even higher (Brochman, 1991). Until the mid-1980s, most literature discussed this violent crime in the context of women only. The lack of tracking of sexual crimes against men and the lack of research about the effects of male rape are indicative of the attitude held by society at large -- that while male rape occurs, it is not an acceptable topic for discussion.

Historically, the rape of males was more widely recognized in ancient times. Several of the legends in Greek mythology involved abductions and sexual assaults of males by other males or gods. The rape of a defeated male enemy was considered the special right of the victorious soldier in some societies and was a signal of the totality of the defeat. There was a widespread belief that a male who was sexually penetrated, even if it was by forced sexual assault, thus "lost his manhood," and could no longer be a warrior or ruler. Gang rape of a male was considered an ultimate form of punishment and, as such, was known to the Romans as punishment for adultery and the Persians and Iranians as punishment for violation of the sanctity of the harem (Donaldson, 1990).

A. Nicholas Groth, a clinical psychologist and author of Men Who Rape: The Psychology of the Offender, says all sexual assault is an act of aggression, regardless of the gender or age of the victim or the assailant. Neither sexual desire nor sexual deprivation is the primary motivating force behind sexual assault. It is not about sexual gratification, but rather a sexual aggressor using somebody else as a means of expressing their own power and control.
Much has been written about the psychological trauma associated with the rape of female victims. While less research has been conducted about male rape victims, case research suggests that males also commonly experience many of the reactions that females experience. These reactions include: depression, anger, guilt, self-blame, sexual dysfunctions, flashbacks, and suicidal feelings (Isley, 1991). Other problems facing males include an increased sense of vulnerability, damaged self-image and emotional distancing (Mezey & King, 1989). Male rape victims not only have to confront unsympathetic attitudes if they choose to press charges, they also often hear unsupportive statements from their friends, family and acquaintances (Brochman, 1991). People will tend to fault the male victim instead of the rapist. Stephen Donaldson, president of Stop Prisoner Rape (a national education and advocacy group), says that the suppression of knowledge of male rape is so powerful and pervasive that criminals such as burglars and robbers sometimes rape their male victims as a sideline solely to prevent them from going to the police.

There are many reasons that male victims do not come forward and report being raped, but perhaps the biggest reason for many males is the fear of being perceived as homosexual. However, male sexual assault has nothing to do with the sexual orientation of the attacker or the victim, just as a sexual assault does not make the victim survivor gay, bisexual or heterosexual. It is a violent crime that affects heterosexual men as much as gay men. The phrase "homosexual rape," for instance, which is often used by uninformed persons to designate male-male rape, camouflages the fact that the majority of the rapists are not generally homosexual (Donaldson, 1990).

In a well-known study of offenders and victims conducted by Nicholas Groth and Ann Burgess, one-half of the offender population described their consenting sexual encounters to be with women only, while 38 percent had consenting sexual encounters with men and women. Additionally, one-half of the victim population was strictly heterosexual. Among the offenders studied, the gender of the victim did not appear to be of specific significance to half of the offenders. Instead, they appeared to be relatively indiscriminate with regard to their choice of a victim -- that is, their victims included both males and females, as well as both adults and children (Groth & Burgess, 1980). The choice of a victim seemed to be more a matter of accessibility than of sexual orientation, gender or age.

Many people believe that the majority of male rape occurs in prison; however, there is existing research which shatters this myth. A study of incarcerated and non-incarcerated male rape victims in Tennessee concluded that the similarities between these two groups would suggest that the sexual assault of men may not be due to conditions unique to a prison and that all men are potential victims (Lipscomb et al., 1992).

Research indicates that the most common sites for male rape involving post-puberty victims are outdoors in remote areas and in automobiles (the latter usually involving hitchhikers). Boys in their early and mid-teens are more likely to be victimized than older males (studies indicate a median victim age of 17). The form of assault usually involves penetration of the victim anally and/or orally, rather than stimulation of the victim's penis. Gang rape is more common in cases involving male victims than those involving female victims. Also, multiple sexual acts are more likely to be demanded, weapons are more likely to be displayed and used, and physical injury is more likely to occur, with the injuries that do occur being more serious than with injured female rape victims (Porter, 1986).
Definition
Sexual assault and rape include any unwanted sexual acts. The assailant can be a stranger, an acquaintance, a family member, or someone the victim knows well and trusts. Rape and sexual assault are crimes of violence and are used to exert power and control over another person. The legal definitions of rape and sexual assault can vary from state to state (National Center for Victims of Crime, INFO LINK, No. 70. However, usually a sexual assault occurs when a someone touches any part of another person's body in a sexual way, even through their clothes, without that person's consent. Rape of males is any kind of sexual assault that involves forced penetration of the anus or mouth by a penis, finger or any other object. Both rape and sexual assault includes situations when the victim cannot say "no" because he is disabled, unconscious, drunk or high.

In some states, the word "rape" is used only to define a forced act of vaginal sexual intercourse, and an act of forced anal intercourse is termed "sodomy." In some states, the crime of sodomy also includes any oral sexual act. There are some states that now use gender-neutral terms to define acts of forced anal, vaginal or oral intercourse. Also, some states no longer use the terms "rape" and "sodomy," rather all sex crimes are described as sexual assaults or criminal sexual conduct of various degrees depending on the use and amount of force or coercion on the part of the assailant (National Center for Victims of Crime, INFO LINK, No. 70).
Victims' Response
It is not uncommon for a male rape victim to blame himself for the rape, believing that he in some way gave permission to the rapist (Brochman, 1991). Male rape victims suffer a similar fear that female rape victims face -- that people will believe the myth that they may have enjoyed being raped. Some men may believe they were not raped or that they gave consent because they became sexually aroused, had an erection, or ejaculated during the sexual assault. These are normal, involuntary physiological reactions. It does not mean that the victim wanted to be raped or sexually assaulted, or that the survivor enjoyed the traumatic experience. Sexual arousal does not necessarily mean there was consent.

According to Groth, some assailants may try to get their victim to ejaculate because for the rapist, it symbolizes their complete sexual control over their victim's body. Since ejaculation is not always within conscious control but rather an involuntary physiological reaction, rapists frequently succeed at getting their male victims to ejaculate. As Groth and Burgess have found in their research, this aspect of the attack is extremely stressful and confusing to the victim. In misidentifying ejaculation with orgasm, the victim may be bewildered by his physiological response during the sexual assault and, therefore, may be discouraged from reporting the assault for fear his sexuality may become suspect (Groth & Burgess, 1980).

Another major concern facing male rape victims is society's belief that men should be able to protect themselves and, therefore, it is somehow their fault that they were raped. The experience of a rape may affect gay and heterosexual men differently. Most rape counselors point out that gay men have difficulties in their sexual and emotional relationships with other men and think that the assault occurred because they are gay, whereas straight men often begin to question their sexual identity and are more disturbed by the sexual aspect of the assault than the violence involved (Brochman, 1991).
Male Rape as an Act of Anti-Gay Violence
Unfortunately, incidents of anti-gay violence also include forcible rape, either oral or anal. Attackers frequently use verbal harassment and name-calling during such a sexual assault. Given the context of coercion, however, such technically homosexual acts seem to imply no homosexuality on the part of the offenders. The victim serves, both physically and symbolically, as a "vehicle for the sexual status needs of the offenders in the course of recreational violence" (Harry, 1992, p.115).

If You Are a Victim
Rape and sexual assault include any unwanted sexual acts. Even if you agree to have sex with someone, you have the right to say "no" at any time, and to say "no" to any sexual acts. If you are sexually assaulted or raped, it is never your fault -- you are not responsible for the actions of others.

Richie J. McMullen, author of Male Rape: Breaking the Silence on the Last Taboo, encourages seeking immediate medical attention whether or not the incident is reported to police. Even if you do not seem injured, it is important to get medical attention. Sometimes injuries that seem minor at first can get worse. Survivors can sometimes contract a sexually transmitted disease during the sexual assault, but not suffer immediate symptoms. Even if the symptoms of that disease take weeks or months to appear, it might be easily treated with an early diagnosis. (If you are concerned about HIV exposure, it is important to talk to a counselor about the possibility of exposure and the need for testing. For more information about HIV transmission and testing, contact the Centers for Disease Control National HIV/AIDS Hotline. Check the contact list at the end of this bulletin for the phone number and address information.)

Medical considerations making immediate medical attention imperative include:

• Rectal and anal tearing and abrasions which may require attention and put the you at risk for bacterial infections;
• Potential HIV exposure; and
• Exposure to other sexually transmitted diseases.

If you plan to report the rape to the police, an immediate medical examination is necessary to collect potential evidence for the investigation and prosecution.

Some of the physical reactions a survivor may experience in response to the trauma of a sexual assault or rape include:

• Loss of appetite;
• Nausea and/or stomachaches;
• Headaches;
• Loss of memory and/or concentration; and/or
• Changes in sleep patterns.

Some of the psychological and emotional reactions a sexual assault survivor may experience include:

• Denial and/or guilt;
• Shame or humiliation;
• Fear and a feeling of loss of control;
• Loss of self-respect;
• Flashbacks to the attack;
• Anger and anxiety;
• Retaliation fantasies (sometimes shocking the survivor with their graphic violence);
• Nervous or compulsive behavior;
• Depression and mood swings;
• Withdrawal from relationships; and
• Changes in sexual activity.

Survivors of rape, and often of attempted rape, usually manifest some elements of what has come to be called Rape-Related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (RR-PTSD), a form of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Apart from a small number of therapists and counselors specializing in sexual assault cases, few psychotherapists are familiar with the symptoms and treatment of RR-PTSD. For this reason, a rape survivor is usually well-advised to consult with a rape crisis center or someone knowledgeable in this area rather than relying on general counseling resources. The same applies to those close to a rape victim, such as a partner, spouse or parent; these persons become secondary victims of the sexual assault and have special issues and concerns that they may need assistance in dealing with effectively.

Local rape crisis centers offer male sexual assault victims direct services or referrals for services, including: counseling, crisis services and support services. Victims may contact their local rape crisis center, no matter how long it has been since the rape occurred. Counselors on staff can either provide support, or help direct the victim to trained professionals who can provide support. Most rape programs are staffed by women; however, some programs have male and female counselors. If you prefer one or the other, make that preference known when you initially contact the program. Whether or not they have male staff on call, almost all rape crisis centers can make referrals to male counselors sensitive to the needs of male sexual assault survivors. In addition, many communities across the country have support groups for victims of anti-gay violence.

Counseling can help you cope with the physical and emotional reactions to the sexual assault or rape, as well as provide you with necessary information about medical and criminal justice system procedures. Seeking counseling is an important way to regain a sense of control over your life after surviving a sexual assault. Contact your local rape crisis program even if services are not expressly advertised for male rape survivors. The number can be found in your local phone book listed under "Community Services Numbers," "Emergency Assistance Numbers," "Survival Numbers" or "Rape."

Sexual assault and rape are serious crimes. As a sexual assault survivor, you have the right to report the crime to the police. This decision is one only you can make. But because authorities are not always sensitive to male sexual assault victims, it is important to have a friend or advocate go with you to report the crime for support and assistance.
 
References
Brochman, Sue. (July 30, 1991). "Silent Victims: Bringing Male Rape Out of the Closet." The Advocate, 582: 38 - 43.

Bureau of Justice Statistics. (1997). Criminal Victimization in the United States, 1994. Washington, DC: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice.

Bureau of Justice Statistics. (March 1985). The Crime of Rape. Washington, DC: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice.

Donaldson, Donald. (1990). "Rape of Males," in Dynes, Wayne, ed. Encyclopedia of Homosexuality. New York: Garland Publications.

Groth, A. Nicholas and Ann Wolbert Burgess. (1980). "Male Rape: Offenders and Victims." American Journal of Psychiatry, 137(7): 806 - 810.

Groth, A. Nicholas and B. A. Birnbaum. (1979). Men Who Rape: The Psychology of the Offender. New York: Plenum.

Harry, Joseph. (1992). "Conceptualizing Anti-Gay Violence," in Herek, Gregory and Kevin Berrill, eds. Hate Crimes: Confronting Violence Against Lesbians and Gay Men. Newbury Park, CA: Sage Publications.
Isley, Paul. (1991). "Adult Male Sexual Assault in the Community: A Literature Review and Group Treatment Model," in Burgess, Ann, ed. Rape and Sexual Assault III: A Research Handbook. New York: Garland Publishing, Inc.
Lipscomb, Gary H. et al. (1992). "Male Victims of Sexual Assault." Journal of the American Medical Association, 267(22): 3064 - 3066.

McMullen, Richie J. (1990). Male Rape: Breaking the Silence on the Last Taboo. London: GMP Publishers Ltd.

Mezey, Gillian and Michael King. (1989). "The Effects of Sexual Assault on Men: A Survey of 22 Victims." Psychological Medicine, 19(1): 205 - 209.

National Center for Victims of Crime. (1992). "Rape-Related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder," INFO LINK, Arlington, VA.

National Center for Victims of Crime. (1995). "Sexual Assault Legislation," INFO LINK, Arlington, VA.

Porter, Eugene. (1986). Treating the Young Male Victim of Sexual Assault. Syracuse, NY: Safer Society Press.
Bibliography
Allers, Christopher et al. (1991). "HIV Vulnerability and the Adult Survivor of Childhood Sexual Abuse." Child Abuse and Neglect, 17: 291 - 298.

Baker, Timothy and Ann Burgess, Ellen Brickman and Robert Davis. (1990). "Rape Victims' Concerns About Possible Exposure to HIV Infection." Journal of Interpersonal Violence,
5(1): 49 - 60.

Bradway, Becky. (1993). Sexual Violence Facts and Statistics. Springfield, IL: Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault.

Burgess, Ann and Timothy Baker. (1992). "AIDS and Victims of Sexual Assault." Hospital and Community Psychiatry, 43(5): 447 - 448.

Comstock, Gary. (1991). Violence Against Lesbians and Gay Men. New York: Columbia University Press.

Fuller, A. Kenneth and Robert Bartucci. (1991). "HIV Transmission and Childhood Sexual Abuse." Journal of Sex Education & Therapy, 17(1).

Gostin, Lawrence et al. (1994). "HIV Testing, Counseling, and Prophylaxis After Sexual Assault." Journal of the American Medical Association, 271(18): 1436 - 1444.

Jenny, Carole et al. (1990). "Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Victims of Rape."
The New England Journal of Medicine, 322(11).

National Center for Victims of Crime. (1992). Looking Back, Moving Forward: A Program for Communities Responding to Sexual Assault. Arlington, VA: National Center for Victims of Crime.
National Center for Victims of Crime and Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center. (1992). Rape in America: A Report to the Nation. Arlington, VA: National Center for Victims of Crime.
For additional information, please contact:
Centers for Disease Control National HIV/AIDS Hotline
American Social Health Association
P.O. Box 13827
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
(800) 342 - AIDS
(800) 344 - SIDA (Spanish)
(800) 243 - 7889 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (800) 243 - 7889      end_of_the_skype_highlighting (TDD)
Provides information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, about HIV/AIDS and will send free, written information, including legal services, counseling and therapies.
Men's Resource Center
12 Southeast 14th
Portland, OR 97214
(503) 235 - 3433 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (503) 235 - 3433      end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Men Stopping Rape
306 North Brooks Street
Madison, WI 53715
(608) 257 - 4444 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (608) 257 - 4444      end_of_the_skype_highlighting

National AIDS Clearinghouse
Centers for Disease Control
P.O. Box 6003
Rockville, MD 20849
(800) 458 - 5231 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (800) 458 - 5231      end_of_the_skype_highlighting
(800) 243 - 7012 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (800) 243 - 7012      end_of_the_skype_highlighting (TDD)
Distributes a variety of educational materials to the public. Provides expert referrals.

National Coalition Against Sexual Assault
125 N. Enola Drive
Enola, PA 17025
(717) 728 - 9764 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (717) 728 - 9764      end_of_the_skype_highlighting

National Crime Victims Research & Treatment Center
Medical University of South Carolina
171 Ashley Avenue
Charleston, SC 29425
(843) 792 - 2945 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (843) 792 - 2945      end_of_the_skype_highlighting

National Gay & Lesbian Task Force
2320 17^th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20009
(202) 332 - 6483 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (202) 332 - 6483      end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Your state Attorney General, county/city prosecutor, or county/city law enforcement:

Check in the Blue pages of your local phone book under the appropriate section heading of either "Local Governments," "County Governments," or "State Government."


INFO LINK ©: A Program of the National Center for Victims of Crime.

All rights reserved.

Copyright © 1997 by the National Center for Victims of Crime. This information may be freely distributed by electronic communication, provided that it is distributed in its entirety and includes this copyright notice, but may not be reprinted or distributed by any other means without the express written consent of the National Center for Victims of Crime.

To we talk again remember what Winston Churchill said

"IF YOU'RE GOING THROUGH HELL, KEEP GOING"

ptsd and rape trauma syndrome

As I search for info on the web I find stories about all types of syndromes related to Rape now MST is not only Rape but defined by the our Government as Military Sexual Trauma  

What is military sexual trauma (MST)?

In both civilian and military settings, service members can experience a range of unwanted sexual behaviors that they may find distressing. These experiences happen to both women and men. "Military sexual trauma" or MST is the term used by the Department of Veterans Affairs to refer to experiences of sexual assault or repeated, threatening acts of sexual harassment.
The definition of MST used by the VA is given by U.S. Code (1720D of Title 38). It is "psychological trauma, which in the judgment of a VA mental health professional, resulted from a physical assault of a sexual nature, battery of a sexual nature, or sexual harassment which occurred while the Veteran was serving on active duty or active duty for training." Sexual harassment is further defined as "repeated, unsolicited verbal or physical contact of a sexual nature which is threatening in character."
In more concrete terms, MST includes any sexual activity where you are involved against your will. You may have been pressured into sexual activities. For example, you may have been threatened with negative consequences for refusing to go along. It may have been implied that you would get faster promotions or better treatment in exchange for sex. You may not have been able to consent to sexual activities, for example, if you were intoxicated. You may have been physically forced into sexual activities. Other MST experiences include:

• Unwanted sexual touching or grabbing.
• Threatening, offensive remarks about your body or your sexual activities.
• Threatening and unwelcome sexual advances.

If these experiences occurred while you were on active duty or active duty for training, they are considered to be MST.


MST PTSD FROM RAPE

PTSD

post-traumatic stress disorder is a normal emotional and psychological reaction to trauma (a painful, shocking experience such as rape, war or a natural disaster) that is outside of a person's normal life experiences.

Anyone who experiences a traumatic event can suffer from PTSD. PTSD can affect survivors of war, violent attacks, rape, car or plane accidents and natural disasters and can also affect people who witness these events.

Symptoms of PTSD include recurrent memories or flashbacks of the trauma, nightmares, insomnia and/or lack of interest in family, friends or hobbies. They may suffer from depression. They may also suffer from survivor guilt, have overwhelming emotions, and be irritable or jumpy.
rape trauma syndrome

Immediate reactions after a rape may vary. Some rape survivors remain controlled, numb, in shock, denial disbelief. They present a flat affect, quiet, reserved, and have difficulties expressing themselves. Other rape survivors respond quite differently - being very expressive and verbalizing feelings of sadness or anger. They may appear distraught or anxious and may even express rage or hostility against the medical staff attempting to care for them.

Various factors may aid or inhibit the survivors ability to resolve the issues associated by the rape. Positive feelings of self-esteem, good support systems, previous success in dealing with crisis and economic security all enhance her ability to heal. Survivors who can minimize, (deal with one small segment of the problem at a time ) often find success. Certainly survivors moved to action gain confidence as they implement decisions. But survivors who suffer with chronic stress, lack of support systems and prior victimization struggle less successfully to resolve their issues. Negative self-esteem often hinders their progress and paralyze their efforts. These victims often use maladaptive methods to deal with their stress. These factors hamper their ability to resolve the issues of the rape and move beyond it.

Rape victims can suffer a significant degree of physical and emotional trauma during the rape, immediately following the rape and over a considerable time period after the rape. A study of rape victims has identified a three-stage process, or syndrome, that occurs as a result of forcible rape or attempted forcible rape. This syndrome is an acute stress reaction to a life-threatening situation that can last from two years to a lifetime. It is also often known as rape trauma syndrome or rape related post traumatic stress disorder, rrpstd.

The acute phase begins immediately and lasts up to several days after the attack. The survivor feels violated and fearful and may be depressed�even suicidal. The victim struggles with feelings of loss of control and may note changes in appetite, sleep habits or social functions. Survivors may note change in their sexual patterns at this time.

The Acute Stage: This stage occurs immediately after the assault. It may last a few days to several weeks. During this stage the victim may:
seem agitated or hysterical or s/he may appear totally calm (a slogan that s/he could be in shock).
have crying spells and anxiety attacks.
have difficulty concentrating, making decisions, and dolling simple, everyday tasks.
show little emotion, act as though numb or stunned.
have poor recall of the rape or other memories.

In the second stage, it seems that survivors begin to resolve their issues. This stage is also called the "flight to health." But denial frequently masks the under lying problems as survivors make an effort to re-establish the routines of their life and bring back some semblance of control. Sometimes, in an effort to feel back in control, rape victims make dramatic changes in lifestyle or environment. They may quit a long-standing job or move to a new location to get a fresh start. They may dramatically change their appearance; cut their hair or perhaps change the colour. None of the changes brings about the security they search for as nightmares and phobias emerge. They work hard to suppress the feelings because dealing with them is so very painful.

The Outward Adjustment Stage: During this stage the victim resumes what appears to be from the outside her/his "normal" life. Inside, however, there is considerable turmoil which can manifest itself by any of the following behaviours:
continuing anxiety.
sense of helplessness.
persistent fear and/or depression.
severe mood swings (e.g. happy to angry, etc.).
vivid dreams, recurrent nightmares, insomnia.
physical ailments.
appetite disturbances (e.g. nausea, vomiting, compulsive eating).
efforts to deny the assault ever took place and/or to minimize its impact.
withdrawal from friends and/or relatives.
preoccupation with personal safety.
reluctance to leave the house and/or to go places which remind the victim of the rape.
hesitation about forming new relationships with men and/or distrustful or existing relationship.
sexual problems.
disruption of normal everyday routines (e.g. high absenteeism at work suddenly or, conversely, working longer than usual hours; dropping out of school; travelling different routes; going out only at certain times).


But the feelings do not go away as easily as before. Their re-surfacing introduces the third stage of the rape trauma syndrome. The client no longer denies the issues; she/he may want to talk about what happened. The client finds themselves more willing to accept counselling and get in touch with the feelings and emotions associated with the rape. Survivors may feel overwhelmed as they attempt to deal with feelings they struggled to suppress since the assault. Often some sensory stimulation triggers memories that call to mind the sexual assault. Suddenly the survivor seems to be re-living the trauma as the rape comes to life again. Nightmares, phobias, depression, reoccurring thoughts and sexual dysfunction monopolize her thoughts. She / he feels anxious to talk about it; to deal with it and is ready to seek therapy although she may not understand why the issues surface at that time. The stages are not linear and can vary as the victim works their way through. Survivors find themselves taking one step forward and two back as they vacillate between stages and labour to find their way.


The Resolution Stage: During this stage the rape is no longer the central focus in the victim's life. The victim begins to recognize that while s/he will never forget the assault, the pain and memories associated with it are lessening. S/he has accepted the rape as a part of her/his life experience and is choosing to move on from there. Some of the behaviours of the second stage may flare up at times but they do so less frequently and with less intensity. In this fashion the person who has survived has moved from being a " victim" to a "survivor".

While some survivors move forward and take control of their lives, other continue to suffer and may even develop post traumatic stress disorder ( rape trauma syndrome ) as result of the rape. They struggle with reoccurring thoughts about the trauma and find themselves in a state of hyper vigilance; easily startled and always anticipating another attack. Nightmares, flashbacks, and sleep disturbances disrupt their lives. Constant efforts to avoid the memories of trauma literally control their existence. Some rape survivors have post-traumatic stress disorder for years and need continuous counselling and support.

Recovery Takes Time

Survivors recover in stages. They may start with one stage, go to another, and go back. Each person processes the event his or her / his own way. Survivors are not to blame for the crime committed to them by another person. We cannot control the actions of another person. Survivors need a safe environment to work through their fears. You can help by providing the survivor with pace and time to recover.

The info about is from http://www.aest.org.uk/survivors/rts.html till we talk again remember what  
Winston Churchill said

"IF YOU'RE GOING THROUGH HELL, KEEP GOING"

Finding the right VSO and the right group to work with to get your VA benefits

So you have PTSD from MST who do you go to for help? Let me tell you my story and then you may understand.

As a survivor of MST this is

my story it is a non combat MST that happened to me when I was in The United States Army at Fort Jackson SC in May of 1980. I was a young 18 year old soldier who was in Basic Combat Training. I was hurt in a fall early in training and was not given medical care. I was upset and The Drill Sgts were calling me all types of derogatory names and making do things that were not the normal for a injuryed soldier.

One night I was told to do fire watch and then clean all the bathrooms and common areas of the dorms. I was going to get a new mop head in the duty office when I was jumped by 3 or 4 people who were all Drill Sgts and who tied me up gaged me and gang raped me for hours. I reported this the next day to my company commander who was a young Lt. acting as the company commanded this was his first command. He said that I was just making up stories to go home and that his men would never do anything like that to a soldier and his men were not fags or gay. I ask to go to the IG's office or to see a MP or Mental Health and was told why they would not believe me as I was just a Pvt. and He was a LT. and His men well respect Drill Sgts. Sometime during the next couple days I somehow made it to the Mental Health Clinic where I was told to go back to my company that I was not a good sldier and would not be allowed to stay in the Army. Not long after that I passed out and was put into the Hospital with a high temp and a infection in the lower part of my body. With in 10 days I was home and out of The US Army with a honorable discharge. But when I returned home my doctor said who did this to you and he sent me to the IG's office at Fort Monmouth and to the VSO for the state  after the visit to the VSO I was sent to the hospital at East Orange NJ were I was given treatment and sent home. My family doctor was a former Army doctor and treated me without cost and help me to get help from some of his friends at Fort Monmouth. The IG's office at Fort Monmouth sent my case to the IG's office at Fort Jackson but they never did anything due to no physical evidence for rape and the LT. was right the IG's office closed the case and sent a letter to the Fort Monmouth IG's saying that no physical or writen statement were found at Fort Jackson and that statements from all officers and drill sgts were the same all the soldier did the whole time was act out and complain that is why he was discharged and also due to his Borderline personality disorder. The LT. may have been a bad officer but he knew how to cover up for his men.

When I got my C-file 20 plus years later I started having flash back dreams about the Rape and I then became very depressed and called the Suicide Hotlines: Thats were I started my MST rediscover. So now I had to get help well it was not easy first the rape center I was sent to was for Women who were sexually assault and domestic violence and they said in their info that they worked with women, men and children after 3 visits I was told that the Director said the women did not like a man in the waiting room and I would have to find someone else. I think it was more about no insurance or money. I was talking to my VA  doctor and he said to go to the VA mental health clinic in Brick NJ and to talk to my VSO and file a claim when I went to my VSO who was my VSO for a very long time and was most of the time nice and helpful he did a 180 and started to be very nasty after I told him that I was raped in the service he did not want to file my claim and throw me out of his office I was shocked and hurt and felt like I was raped again. I called his boss and he was made to file my claim "Bet you can guess I was denied and right after they got a copy of the letter from the VA I was terminated from their service and they removed the POA for me from the VA" So here I was with no representative to help you present my appeal to the VA. So I looked for a new veterans service organizations I talk to every organization that I could find and was told it is very hard for a new VSO to file an appeal and they said I should do it myself the VA  rules and procedures are very complicated. It can be frustrating and hazardous to go it alone. Let me tell you it is and I lost because of the time stamp was over the limit by 1 week.
"GET HELP"
It is a good idea to get a representative to help you present your claim to the VA. VA rules and procedures are very complicated. It can be frustrating and hazardous to go it alone.
Many veterans service organizations and state and county veterans service agencies offer free assistance. No matter who you select to represent you, it is important that you be personally involved in your case and make certain that everything that should be done, is done.
Although it can be a difficult task, shop around for the best advocate. Talk to the prospective representative; ask if there are any limits on his service; get a feel for the person who will be working for you before you sign a power of attorney appointing the person as your representative. 
Go to our website www.mendmst.org and go to the help for MST survivors page and to the link page on these pages you will also find groups who can help you file who are made up of people who understand MST and the VA system. Friends you still need to know the laws and what you are a survivor entitled too. Here is a link to my friends blog check out the VA’s MST Policies and Treatment Benefits at http://jayherron.wordpress.com/2009/04/04/vas-policies-and-treatment-benefits/ 
Thanks Jay for all you do.

Sometimes VSO are not able to help you due to personal reasons like they have a hard core value system that says "Don't Tell Just Be A Man/Woman and live with it "Some Gave All All Gave Some" or they may have had something bad happen to them that they do not want to face. I pray for them every day its hard work and sometimes they get burned out and even have PTSD from it. Till next time remember what Winston Churchill said

"IF YOU'RE GOING THROUGH HELL, KEEP GOING"

I am a Compulive hoarder due to my PTSD MST

Hi friends its Tuesday night 1-18-2011 was just going to check for some paperwork for my case but I am a Compulive Hoarder and I would have just given up. So here I am at the computer blogging about why I am a Hoarding King. So I web search Hoarding and found this From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Compulsive hoarding (or pathological hoarding or disposophobia)^[1] is the excessive acquisition of possessions (and failure to use or discard them), even if the items are worthless, hazardous, or unsanitary. Compulsive hoarding impairs mobility and interferes with basic activities, including cooking, cleaning, showering, and sleeping. A person who engages in compulsive hoarding is commonly said to be a "pack rat", in reference to that animal's characteristic hoarding.
It is not clear whether compulsive hoarding is an isolated disorder, or rather a symptom of another condition, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder.^[2

 ^{This my Apartment in Bradley Beach NJ where I think it is not sure whats under all of this stuff its been so long since it was all cleaned up like 4 years or so.} 

Characteristics

 

While there is no clear definition of compulsive hoarding in accepted diagnostic criteria (such as the current DSM), Frost and Hartl (1996) provide the following defining features:^[3]

• The acquisition of and failure to discard a large number of possessions that appear to be useless or of limited value
• Living spaces sufficiently cluttered so as to preclude activities for which those spaces were designed
• Significant distress or impairment in functioning caused by the hoarding
• Reluctance or inability to return borrowed items; as boundaries blur, impulsive acquisitiveness could sometimes lead to kleptomania or stealing

According to Sanjaya Saxena, MD, director of the Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders Program at the University of California, San Diego, compulsive hoarding in its worst forms can cause fires, unclean conditions (e.g. rat and roach infestations),^[4] injuries from tripping on clutter and other health and safety hazards.^[5] The hoarder may mistakenly believe that the hoarded items are very valuable, or the hoarder may know that the accumulated items are useless, or may attach a strong personal value to items which they recognize would have little or no value to others. A hoarder of the first kind may show off a cutlery set claiming it to be made of silver and mother-of-pearl, disregarding the fact that the packaging clearly states the cutlery is made of steel and plastic. A hoarder of the second type may have a refrigerator filled with uneaten food items months past their expiration dates, but in some cases would vehemently resist any attempts from relatives to dispose of the unusable food. In other cases the hoarder will recognize the need to clean the refrigerator, but due (in part) to feelings that doing so would be an exercise in futility, and overwhelmed by the similar condition of the rest of their living space, fails to do so.

 So after reading that I am a Hoarder I went to youtube and found this video she is talking about female but I feel it happens to male also.


I also found this

Trauma, PTSD and OCD

By Matthew Tull, PhD, About.com Guide

Updated May 25, 2010

PTSD and OCD or obsessive-compulsive disorder, as well as other anxiety disorders, often co-occur. PTSD has been found to commonly co-occur with other anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
In regard to obsessive-compulsive disorder (or OCD) specifically, studies have found that anywhere between 4% and 22% of people with PTSD also have a diagnosis of OCD. In addition, people with OCD also show a high likelihood of having experienced traumatic events. For example, one study found that 54% of people with a diagnosis of OCD report having experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. The experience of traumatic events has also been connected to compulsive behaviors often seen in OCD, such as hoarding (for example, constantly acquiring and not getting rid of a large amount of possessions).

What Is OCD?

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition, OCD is characterized by the experience of recurring excessive obsessive activities and mental rituals, as well as repetitive behaviors or thoughts (also called compulsions), such as hand washing, counting, or checking. Obsessions and compulsions can be defined as:

• Obsessions
  Obsessions are defined as recurring and persistent thoughts, impulses, and/or images that are viewed as intrusive and inappropriate. The experience of these thoughts, impulses, and/or images also cause considerable distress and anxiety.
  
  The obsessions in OCD are not just worries about real-life problems, and people will try (often unsuccessfully) to ignore or "push away" these recurrent thoughts, impulses or images. Finally, in OCD, people recognize that these obsessions are from their own mind (and not delusions like what might be seen in someone with a psychotic disorder).

Compulsions
Compulsions are defined as repetitive behaviors (for example, excessive hand washing, checking, hoarding, or constantly trying to put things around you in order) or mental rituals (for example, frequently praying, counting in your head, or repeating phrases constantly in your mind) that someone feels like they have to do in response to the experience of obsessive thoughts.Compulsions are focused on trying to reduce or eliminate anxiety or prevent the likelihood of some kind of dreaded event or situation.
To have a diagnosis of OCD, a person must experience obsessions and/or compulsions, view the obsessions and compulsions as being excessive and unreasonable, and experience considerable distress as a result of having these obsessions and compulsions.

How Are PTSD and OCD Connected?

In addition to PTSD, people who have experienced a traumatic life event may also be more likely to develop symptoms of OCD. In fact, it has been shown that the severity of a person's OCD symptoms is connected to the number of traumatic events they have experienced in their lifetime.
After experiencing a traumatic event, a person may constantly feel anxious and have concerns about their safety. Compulsive behaviors (like checking, ordering, or hoarding) may make a person feel more in control, safe, and reduce anxiety in the short-run. However, in the long-run, compulsive behaviors do not adequately address the source of the anxiety and can even increase the amount of anxiety someone experiences.

Getting Help for Your PTSD and OCD

If you have PTSD and OCD, it is very important to seek out treatment. There are a number of effective treatments available for PTSD and OCD. You can learn more about the treatment of OCD at the Obsessive Compulsive Foundation (or OCF). The OCF also provides information on how to find a therapist for your OCD and support groups in your area. Finally, Dr. Ashley Walters-Ingvoldstad, About.com Guide to OCD, provides a wealth of information on OCD, including its symptoms, how to cope with OCD, and its treatment.
<sub>Sources:

American Psychiatric Association (1994). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, 4th ed. Washington, DC: Author. Cromer, K.R., Schmidt, N.B., & Murphy, D.L. (2007). An investigation of traumatic life events and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 45, 1683-1691.
Cromer, K.R., Schmidt, N.B., & Murphy, D.L. (2007). Do traumatic events influence the clinical expression of compulsive hoarding? Behaviour Research and Therapy, 45, 2581-2592.
Hubbert, J.D., Moser, J.S., Gershuny, B.S., Riggs, D.S., Spokas, M., Filip, J. et al. (2005). The relationship between obsessive-compulsive and posttraumatic stress symptoms in clinical and non-clinical samples. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 19, 127-136.
Kessler, R.C., Sonnega, A., Bromet, E., Hughes, M., & Nelson, C.B. (1995). Posttraumatic stress disorder in the National Comorbidity Survey. Archives of General Psychiatry, 52, 1048-1060.


Well it time to say good night if I can find more info I will post it later till then remember</sub> "
Find the way out of Hell as Winston Churchill said

"IF YOU'RE GOING THROUGH HELL, KEEP GOING"

Happy Birthday Dr King "Your words moved many and we needed a man like you!".

Happy Birthday just does not fit for Today we as the nation celebrates 'Martin Luther King Day', in honor of an iconic figure in the development of civil rights in the US and around the world.. Yes Rev. Dr. King your words moved many and still today we fight for all to have civil rights. As I sit here in my small apartment looking over the memorial park in our small ocean side town covered in snow with christmas lights still aglow. I think who still does not have civil rights well it only takes one look at the flag pole to answer that it flying at half staff today" no not because it Martin Luther King Day its flying because some one is still fighting for our civil rights and dying everyday here is a small look at who and what they were doing. 23-year-old Army Pfc.
Benjamin Moore of Bordentown was killed by an improvised explosive device. A soldier from New Jersey killed in Afghanistan.so we could have civil rights.

Local Police Officer Killed  protecting our civil rights Officer Meatless was shot three times in his patrol car Friday, allegedly by suspect Jahmell W. Crockam, 19, of Lakewood. Matlosz died an hour after the shooting and Crockam was arrested in Camden on Sunday.
"He is the first officer I recall (shot to death) in my 38 years in law enforcement and that I remember 59 years as an Ocean County resident," said Deputy Chief Michael Mohel of the Ocean County Prosecutor's Office.
Matlosz, 27, had been a member of the Lakewood Police Department since 2006 and before that, had been an officer in Englishtown since 2004.
Mohel said an autopsy showed Matlosz died of three gunshot wounds to the head. The autopsy was performed Saturday at Community Memorial Hospital in Toms River by Dr. Ian Hood.

 It also makes me think of the American Homeless Veterans who is protecting their civil rights I think its not our Goverment and groups like American Homeless Veteran our doing there best but who is watching their civil rights.

And then Vets like me who is watching my civil rights the rights of the survivors of Military Sexual Trauma Thanks to people like Dr King Their is Veteran Advocacy Groups and great people who are Veteran Advocates. So as I close today I ask you not what can the words of Dr King do but what are you doing to protect our civil rights. HAPPY BIRTHDAY Rev. Dr. King.