The National Elf Service (Mental Elf)

Carrying Heavy Secrets Alone: Sexual Trauma Disclosure in Boys and Men

A new systematic review examined sexual trauma disclosure among boys and men, synthesizing 69 studies that included 10,517 survivors across 23 countries. The analysis found that men typically wait 15‑21 years before disclosing, with shame, fear of disbelief, and masculine norms acting as dominant barriers. Social support emerged as a powerful facilitator, increasing the odds of disclosure up to threefold, while abuse by close family members further suppresses reporting. The review highlights the urgent need for gender‑sensitive, trauma‑informed interventions.