ABSTRACT
Qualitative analysis of boys’ narratives about child sexual abuse revealed several themes, including memories of the abuse, the disclosure and subsequent events, the healing journey, and a meta-theme titled “fear and safety.” In this article, boys’ (N = 19) experiences related to fear and safety and the healing journey are explored. The narratives provided a unique look at boys’ road to recovery, perceptions of counseling, and hopes for their futures. Recommendations for counseling boy victims are discussed.
Disclosure of interest
The author declares that she has no conflicts to report.
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Jennifer M. Foster
Jennifer M. Foster, PhD, LMHC, is an assistant professor in the Department of Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology at Western Michigan University. Her research interests focus on the developmental impact of childhood trauma and the identification of strategies to improve wellness and foster resiliency. She received her PhD from the University of Central Florida.