Sexual self-concepts among sexual minority men with childhood sexual abuse histories

Abstract

Introduction

Sexual self-concepts are people’s positive and negative perceptions as sexual beings. This study sought to further understand sexual self-concepts among young men who have sex with men with childhood sexual abuse histories. Method: Sixteen (N = 16) participants were interviewed utilizing a hermeneutical phenomenological conceptual framework and methodology. Salient themes were developed and analyzed with the assistance of NVivo. Result: Three themes were found: (1) body image concerns; (2) penile insecurities; and (3) desire for romantic attachment. Conclusion: Findings highlight several perceived factors related to sexual self-concepts that could benefit from additional exploration and consideration when providing mental health services. Nonparticipation was discussed as a limitation and a potential obstacle to service-seeking behavior among individuals that have experienced severe childhood trauma. Further awareness about the paradigm of body image and healthy relationship development could assist in improving mental health concerns among this group.

KEYWORDS:

• Childhood sexual abuse
• young men who have sex with men
• sexual self-concepts
• mental health

Disclosure statement

The authors have no conflict of interest.