New Men's Support Group
Posted 12/6/2011 2:44pm
It happens to one in six men. A 2005 study by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control reported that 16% of males were sexually abused by the age of 18. That number is likely underestimated since so many men won’t admit they are survivors, because of the shame and stigma. To help men heal and cope, Cleveland Rape Crisis Center (CRCC) will host a FREE 12-week male support group, Strength in Support: A Group for Men Who Are Survivors of Sexual Violence, beginning January 25, 2012.
“The recent cases of abuse uncovered at Penn State, Syracuse University and locally at Saint Ignatius High School are tragic,” said Megan O’Bryan, CRCC President and CEO. “The positive outcome is that the actions of a few courageous male survivors is empowering others to speak out and not suffer in silence. This program gives men a safe space to discuss what happened to them and provide them with tools for healing.”
Strength in Support will allow male survivors of child or adult sexual violence to process the impact of the trauma on their lives and relationships. Group members will explore ways to cope and heal through education, discussion and activities. Topics may include: disclosure, trust, support, reaction to trauma, coping, maleness and masculinity, sex and sexuality.
“It is difficult for all survivors of sexual violence to talk about what happened because they feel so much shame. Survivors also fear people won’t believe them or will reject them,” said Kirsti Mouncey, CRCC Vice President of Client and Clinical Service. “It is even more difficult for men to come forward because they are socialized to believe they should be able to fight back. Being a victim, particularly of sexual violence, doesn’t fit into their masculine identity.”
Strength in Support will meet Wednesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. beginning January 25, 2012 at the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center located in The Leader Building, 526 Superior Avenue, Suite 1400 in downtown Cleveland.
For more information and to make the required pre-group appointment, call the Intake Department at (216)619-6194 extension 141.
