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Men pressured and forced into sexual experience
C Struckman-Johnson1, D Struckman-Johnson
1Department of Psychology, University of South Dakota, Vermillion 57069.
Archives of Sexual Behavior
|February 1, 1994
Summary
Many college men experience coercive sexual contact, primarily from women. This study explores the nature of these incidents and their complex emotional impacts.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Criminology
Background:
- Sexual coercion is a significant issue affecting individuals across genders.
- Research has historically focused more on female victims of sexual coercion.
- Understanding male experiences of sexual coercion is crucial for comprehensive prevention and support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of coercive sexual contact experienced by college men.
- To explore the tactics used in pressured or forced sexual encounters.
- To examine the emotional impact and psychological reactions to sexual coercion in men.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to 204 predominantly heterosexual college men.
- Participants reported incidents of pressured or forced sexual touch or intercourse since age 16.
- Qualitative interviews were conducted with 10 subjects to explore complex reactions.
Main Results:
- 34% of participants reported experiencing coercive sexual contact, with 24% from women and 4% from men.
- Sexual contact was pressured in 88% of incidents, involving tactics like persuasion and bribery.
- Male perpetrators were associated with a significantly higher negative emotional impact compared to female perpetrators.
Conclusions:
- College men experience sexual coercion from both women and men, with varied tactics and impacts.
- Despite negative emotional responses, participants did not differ in scores for sexual esteem, depression, or preoccupation.
- Complex psychological reactions, including doubts about sexuality and fear of disclosure, are associated with these experiences.