How Toxic Masculinity Hurts Male Survivors — and What Can Help

Toxic masculinity often prevents male survivors of sexual violence from seeking help, reinforcing shame and stigma around their experiences. The Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC) highlights how traditional masculinity norms—like emotional repression, competitiveness, and stoicism—harm men’s mental and physical health and discourage them from reaching out for support. To address these barriers, BARCC partners with organizations like MenHealing to provide safe spaces, peer support, and community for male survivors. These efforts aim to break cultural stereotypes, promote healthy emotional expression, and empower men in their healing journeys.