Psychosocial Services to Male Child Sexual Abuse Survivors in Kenya: A Critical Review.

Abstract

Working PaperChildhood sexual abuse (CSA) is a form of Gender Based Violence that violates not only the dignity of the abused child but also robs the very core of human existence. It is a community abomination and a crime against humanity. Psychosocial support facilitates faster healing from the abuse. This paper sought to assess the Psycho-Social Services offered to Male Child Sexual Abuse (MCSA) survivors in Kenya through a critical analysis of existing literature on the topic. The objective was to review the literature on the psychosocial Support Services offered to MCSA Survivors and to assess the implications on the community's response to MCSA in Kenya. Data was collected by conducting a critical review of qualitative, quantitative and meta-analysis articles and publications. Data was analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively and the results were presented thematically. The findings of the study revealed that although there were established rules, guidelines and measures to protect and support male child survivors of sexual abuse, in practice, many program interventions were inclined towards the girl child. Counselling services, setting up long-term support mechanisms and creating a protective environment for the child were also inclined towards the girl child. In terms of community response to male child sexual abuse, the whole society's approach was recommended to prevent the escalation rates of the abuse in Kenya. This will help improve the psychosocial well-being of male child sexual abuse survivors and society in general. The study recommended that deliberate efforts should be made to isolate specific intervention programs and resources for male child sexual abuse. Policies should also be reviewed to include specific guidelines for the male child sexual abuse victims