 |
| International Day of the Boy-Child: Sexual Abuse Against Boys More Prevalent Than We Know – Opinion |
Statistics reveal that approximately 1 in 6 boys worldwide experience some form of sexual abuse before adulthood.
On this International Day of the Boy Child, it is crucial to highlight a pressing issue that demands immediate action: sexual abuse against boys. Global statistics indicate that approximately 1 in 6 boys worldwide undergoes some form of sexual abuse before reaching adulthood. Unfortunately, these figures likely underestimate the true extent of the problem due to stigma, shame, and societal disbelief.
One of the most troubling aspects of this crisis is the neglect of sexual abuse against boys. Survivors often face skepticism and blame, with their experiences dismissed due to harmful misconceptions. Shockingly, some believe that if a boy experiences an erection during abuse or actively participates in the act, it somehow implies consent or enjoyment. This perpetuates a culture of silence and shame, leaving survivors feeling isolated and invalidated.
It is essential to emphasize that abuse perpetrated against boys below the age of consent constitutes rape, regardless of whether they actively participated in the act. The age of consent varies globally but typically ranges from 16 to 18 years old. Any sexual activity with a child below the age of consent is a violation of their rights and a criminal offense.
The long-term effects of sexual abuse on boys are profound, extending beyond immediate trauma. Male survivors often suffer psychological and emotional challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and difficulties in forming healthy relationships. The impact of abuse can persist into adulthood, affecting self-esteem, trust, and overall well-being.
Urgent action is necessary to address this crisis and safeguard the rights of the boy child. We must advocate for policies prioritizing the well-being of boys and establish social support centers that offer specialized services exclusively for male survivors of sexual abuse. These centers would provide a nurturing environment for boys to access the care and support needed for recovery.
Additionally, it is critical to acknowledge that women can abuse and rape boys. No survivor should be overlooked or dismissed based on the gender of their abuser. Punishment for female perpetrators of abuse against boys must be enforced and taken seriously, just as it is for male perpetrators. All survivors deserve justice and support, regardless of the gender of their abuser. This equitable approach ensures that survivors are not further victimized by societal biases, and perpetrators are held accountable for their actions, irrespective of gender.
We must challenge harmful stereotypes and attitudes that perpetuate the stigma surrounding boy-child sexual abuse. Fellow men, in particular, have a responsibility to stand in solidarity with survivors and create a culture of empathy and support. It is time to put an end to the mockery and derision faced by boys and men who speak up about their experiences as survivors of sexual abuse.
Policy alone is insufficient. Parents play a crucial role in protecting their sons from abuse by fostering open communication, teaching boundaries, and empowering them to speak up. We must also educate boys about consent, healthy relationships, and their right to bodily autonomy, empowering them to recognize and resist abuse.
Let us confront the crisis of sexual abuse against boys head-on, dismantling barriers that prevent male survivors from seeking help and speaking out. By advocating for gender-specific support services and fostering a culture of empathy and understanding, we can create a world where all boys and men receive the assistance they need to heal and thrive.
In conclusion, achieving gender equality in access to support services for male survivors of sexual abuse is a fundamental human right. As we commemorate the International Day of the Boy Child, let us reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of gender, receive the support and assistance they need to heal and thrive.
By Halima Layeni, Founder & Executive Director, Life After Abuse Foundation
About Halima Layeni
Halima Layeni is an incandescent advocate for men’s mental health, leading the charge as the Founder and Executive Director of Life After Abuse Foundation.
