Betrayed as Boys: Psychodynamic Treatment of Sexually Abused Men

by Richard B. Gartner

In the growing professional literature on child sexual abuse, few books focus specifically on the experience of victimized boys and men. Interweaving vital elements of psychodynamic and trauma-oriented clinical practice, this much-needed volume examines how sexual betrayal affects boys, the ways they carry this hurt into adulthood, and how therapists can address the unique needs of men with sexual abuse histories. Exploring the impact of abuse on men's emotional development, gender and sexual identity, and relationships, the book provides in-depth consideration of individual and group treatment issues. Numerous case examples draw readers into the direct experience of these clients and the clinicians who work with them and illuminate their continually shifting relational world.

Genres: Psychology, Nonfiction

356 pages, Hardcover

First published January 3, 1999

Reviews

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

A confronting book where some of the content makes one wonder about the parameters of pain and trauma that humans, especially parents or guardians, can inflict against children.

But a necessary read. I was made aware of not only the level of violence, abuse and violation that some men have experienced but also the implications of this abuse and how they have manifested in the actions and behaviours of these men. It gave me a greater empathy and understanding for men in general actually. This book gave me a good insight into the expectations and cultural restrictions that men face in general, but then related to how these act especially harmfully against betrayed men.
I also now understand the use and skills of psychologists in working through these traumas with men who had been betrayed as boys.
It definitely instilled a greater understanding, contrary to the generalised idea, of how men are just as much victims to these betrayals. I was aware men were as much victims as women but this book gave me a lot more of a connection to these men where I feel more capable at seeing and empathising with the repercussions of these betrayals.

[Jacqueline Gunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a brilliant, comprehensive and sensitive exploration of the inner life, relational dynamics and personal challenges confronting men who were sexually abused as boys.

I devoured this book the first time I read it, when I was working with a lot of men with histories of sexual abuse, early on in my career. Gartner illuminates the intricacies of the therapeutic work, bringing the relational world between therapist and patient to life with vivid case studies.

This second reading was just as good and maybe even better -- if that's possible -- having so many of Gartner's patients' stories echoing ones that I've heard over the years. This is a must read for new and seasoned therapists alike, especially for those who work with trauma. And even though the book focuses on the particular issues that arise for men, I believe it has merit and relevance for therapy with women as well.

[José Bahamondes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Un libro excelente, Richard Gartner es un maestro que entrega un libro completo y detallado del trabajo con hombres víctimas de abuso sexual