Rape of Adult Males and Psychological Distress: A Systematic Review

Rape remains one of the most severe of all interpersonal traumas because of its long-term psychological distress outcomes. However, there has been a paucity of clinical studies conducted on adult males and the psychological impact of being raped. This systematic review of the literature was conducted to look at multiple studies on adult male rape and the resulting psychological distress symptoms. The aim of this study was to examine and provide a descriptive analysis of psychological distress symptoms experienced by adult males who have been raped. Results indicate adult males who have been raped may experience symptoms that can be categorized as seven major psychological distress symptoms. Based on these findings, survivors of adult male rape experience a multiplicity of psychological distress symptoms that may affect multiple functional areas.