Silent and Forgotten

Background Despite increased public awareness of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and rape culture empowering individuals to acknowledge and report their victimization, much attention has focused on female sexual victimization by males. Yet, males also experience sexual violence, ∼1 out of 10 in their lifetime. AIM To discuss male victims of sexual assault in terms of barriers to disclosure, consequences, and implications for practice. Methods A brief narrative review and synthesis of prevalence statistics and literature was conducted. Conclusion Forensic nurses care for all victims of sexual violence and must be able to meet the unique needs of male victims. Forensic nurses must understand the medical, psychological, and legal concerns impacting males presenting for health care in the aftermath of sexual assault.