A Note to Men
Statement for the Innocent Child Project Website Regarding Male Sexual Abuse
By Gregory Hasek, Licensed Mental Health Counselor
The Innocent Child film featured on this website is primarily focused on women who have experienced sexual abuse. It was never our intention to overlook the approximately one in six males in the United States who have also experienced sexual abuse. While some of the content of this film may ring true for men, we understand that there are differences in the male response to abuse which this film does not address.
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In our culture, men are often viewed primarily as perpetrators of trauma rather than as victims. If you are a man who has experienced childhood sexual abuse, we want to acknowledge you and affirm that we care deeply about your experience. Your pain is real, and your story matters. It is our hope to develop a future project that focuses specifically on male survivors.
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In the meantime, we have collaborated to create songs that speak directly to your experience. You can access them on this website. The two songs, “Underneath the Noise” and “Broken Boy,” are intended to connect with you in meaningful and healing ways.
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These songs reflect a common reality: because men are often not validated in their trauma, their pain may emerge through various symptoms. These can include sexual addiction, other forms of addiction, affairs, attachment difficulties, symptoms of PTSD, anger, and challenges in relationships, among others. This is the “noise” referenced in the music. Additional pre-existing songs that I’ve selected for the Men’s Song list may resonate with parts of your experience.
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Many men develop strong emotional defenses as a result of childhood trauma. As a result, feelings and memories are often suppressed, and their stories remain unspoken due to shame. If you are a man reading this, we want you to know that healing is possible. Your voice is important, and your story deserves to be heard.
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In addition to the music, this website offers resources to support your healing journey. We also encourage you to seek out a local therapist who specializes in working with male trauma. Like many men, you may initially seek help for related symptoms—such as those mentioned above—rather than for childhood sexual abuse itself. That is a common and understandable starting point.
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You are also welcome to contact me directly for additional support and information as you continue your healing journey.
Contact Information:
Gregory Hasek
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Executive Director
Southwest Florida Christian Counseling
Website: www.swflchristiancounseling.org
Email: swflchristiancounseling@gmail.com
Phone: +1 239-301-4464
