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Covid 19 in our community
North Omaha Area Health Spring 2022
Male sexual abuse
Special Spring Edition
Five Ways to Respond to People Who Don’t Want People are lining up to be vaccinated continue indefinitely. against COVID-19—and they’re looking forSo, how can we help people ward to resuming a normal life. overcome their resistance to beHowever, not everyone is on ing vaccinated? While science board with vaccination. Though has no sure-fire answer to this the number of vaccine hesitatdilemma, research suggests that ers may be diminishing in the some approaches may be better than othUnited States, it’s still relatively ers and could be worth trying—especially if high compared to many other countries. people are on the fence rather than antiVaccine hesitaters are not a monolith, vaccines, in general. Here is some of what but a diverse group with many reasons for the science says about approaching someavoiding vaccination. Some are concerned one who is vaccine-hesitant. the COVID-19 vaccines aren’t safe or that potential side effects aren’t worth the risk 1. Listen to their concerns—and empathize of taking them. Others think the risk of getting COVID themselves is low; so, why While our first inclination to vaccine rebother? Still others have a resistance to sistors may be to chastise them or come at government intervention and see taking them with an arsenal of facts, that’s likely the vaccine as capitulato be ineffective. Instead, tion to government we should first listen to overreach and a bane people’s concerns withto personal freedoms. A out judgment, so we can small number are simpbetter address their ly opposed to all vacneeds, says Heidi Larson, cines. founding director of the Vaccine Confidence ProThe fact that people ject at the London School of Hygiene and have varying reasons for not getting vacTropical Medicine. cinated can make it more difficult to get everyone one board, and that affects us all. Without sufficient numbers of people be- “If you make a lot of assumptions about coming vaccinated, we won’t reach “herd what people are thinking, then people get immunity.” That means the pandemic could annoyed, because your intervention is not
relevant to them,” she says. “It’s important to really listen and understand, because maybe somebody has a very reasonable concern and just needs some clear information.”
Alternatively, if you feel your friend or family member trusts you to give them the straight story, you may want to summarize findings rather than provide detailed studies. For example, a relative of mine recently expressed concern about the vaccine Research in health care settings sugbeing “fast-tracked” without sufficient gests that showing empathy can help en- testing of its safety. For her, it made sense courage vaccine adherence, because to explain why the vaccines were develit increases trust in the messenger. In Lar- oped so quickly (because of prior work son’s recent book, Stuck: Why Vaccine Ru- creating vaccines for similar viruses and mors Start and Why They Won’t Go Away, international cooperation) as well as how she advises a more understanding view safe they are—something many people around vaccine hesitancy. Approach peo- may not know. ple with respect and dignity, even if you disagree with them. However, overwhelming them with too much information could backfire. When To express empathy, you might say presented with multiple counterargusomething like this: “It’s understandable ments to their strongly held views, people that you would have questions about the tend to take on an adversarial stance, vaccines. There’s a lot of conflicting infor- spending energy poking holes in your themation out there. What have you heard?” sis, says researcher Adam Grant. It’s probMaking people feel like their concerns ably better to point someone to one matter and are not being dismissed can strong argument rather than a slew of scilower their defenses and help them to lis- entific studies. ten better themselves. Still, people tend to pay attention to in2. Supply clear information rel- formation that supports their preconevant to people’s concerns… ceived notions and ignore contrary inforbut not too much mation (what researchers call confirmation bias) or give negative In some cases, it may help to provide news more credence than good news information addressing someone’s con(negativity bias). While helping people uncerns from an unbiased resource, such as derstand how these biases work can the Centers for Disease Control or sometimes make them more open to the World Health Organization. Though changing their views, this might be hard to not everyone will be open to that, those get across in an everyday conversation who are may appreciate the straightforabout vaccines. Instead, it might help to ward information.
simply acknowledge how hard it is to sort through new information when dealing with fear and anxiety, while still reinforcing the importance of vaccines. “This is a dynamic and changing space, and we don’t have all the answers; so, we need to be understanding about the uncertainty people feel,” says Larson. “At the same time, we need to remind people COVID is not over, and if you’re vaccinated, you’re clearly in a better place than if you’re not.”
ing to convey pro-vaccine messages.
For example, one recent study found that Republicans who were hesitant about vaccinations were more willing to change their minds if they heard pro-vaccine messaging from Republican figures—and were less willing if the message came from Democrats. Large-scale surveys of Black and Latino communities suggest it may be better to point people of color to pro-vaccine messengers within 3. Consider finding their social-identity a better messengroups—a trusted ger doctor, pastor, or public figure within When faced with disthat community, aster, many of us will who likely undertend to cling to our idenstands their tity groups for a sense of worldview and has safety and support. Unsome clout.In the fortunately, that can lead U.S., group influencto “groupthink,” where ers, including African American barpeople discredit information from somebers and health professionals, have been one outside of their group—even if it’s encouraging Black people to get vaccinattrue—helping to spread vaccine hesitancy ed. Even Donald Trump has become a prowithin groups. vaccine messenger. Pointing to influential others may help people overcome their reIn the United States, larger percentages sistance, if they relate to the messenger. of Republicans, white evangelical Christians, and people of color remain unvac4. Appeal to people’s altruism cinated, in part because of group distrust and common humanity of government or science—or because they lack concern about the virulence of Some of the unvaccinated are afraid or COVID-19. If you are not a member of one balk at being told what to do, but appealof these groups, and you’re trying to con- ing to their care for others may help overvince people who are to take the vaccine, come their hesitancy. you might be doing them a disservice try-
In a study , researchers interviewed 8,000 people in the U.S. and U.K. to better understand their views on the vaccine. While the study focused primarily on the influence of misinformation on vaccination rates—and, sadly, showed that it increased hesitancy—the researchers also found that people were 6% more willing to get vaccinated if they were told it protected others in addition to protecting themselves. This mirrored earlier studies that found considering others’ safety increased willingness to wear masks and take health precautions.
people find it hard to talk to someone who resists. Even following Larson’s and others’ advice, you may not be able to move someone you care about, and that could cause bad feelings between you. For example, John (an alias) got vaccinated as soon as he was eligible, but members of his extended family refused the vaccine. When many of them became sick and his vaccineresistant uncle died from COVID-19, John felt both grief and fury at his family.
“I flat-out refused to attend my uncle’s wake Appealing to our and service because there would be so shared vulnerability may also be important, says Larson, as a continuing pan- many unvaccinated, mask-resisting people demic thwarts goals everyone shares—like flying there from all over the country,” he says. reopening businesses and strengthening our weakened economy. If we can tie mass While his stance may not have moved vaccination into people’s sense of unity any of his relatives to change their minds, and common purpose, it could make a it was self-protective, and that’s important, dent in vaccine resistance. too, says Larson. When you’re in a highly emotional state, that may not be the best “One of the things about COVID vactime to talk to someone about their hesicines, which is very different from childhood vaccines, is that it matters to every- tancy in an open, neutral way, or to prebody,” “It’s not just about you. We’ve got sent them with facts and figures. to do this together.” Also, if unvaccinated friends and family 5. If nothing works, set bounda- ask you to be in their company, for whatevries er reason, you should feel perfectly fine refusing, says Larson. Given the importance of getting everyone vaccinated, it’s not surprising that “I wouldn’t be shy about saying, ‘It’s your
choice about vaccinating, but for me, I don’t want to take the risk,’” she says.
On the other hand, she says, we can take hope in the fact that people may change their minds on their own. As unvaccinated people face more restrictions—or find friends and relatives leaving them out of activities—that may be more impactful than any particular message you can give them. “We’re going to get to a point where there will be things that people can’t do if they’re not vaccinated,” she says. “People may get so frustrated they’ll just want to go around whatever is preventing them from getting vaccinated—without worrying about explanations.” CHARLES DREW 30 METRO
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Understanding The Reality Of Male Sexual Abuse Reprint from Rawpixel.com
While everyone may experience the issues mentioned in this article, please note that as part of our initiative responding to the APA Guidelines for Psychological Practice with Boys and Men (2018), these articles will focus on how these topics affect men and boys. We use “men” to refer to people who identify as men.
strangers. Young adults can find it especially hard to open up and communicate about their abuse, so it is crucial to look for the warning signs early. Rapid weight loss or weight gain Unexplained and poorly explained bruises or scars Excessive drinking or drug use Withdrawal from friends and family Emotional issues such as depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts Changes in personal hygiene and self-care A sudden decline in school or work performance
Panic attacks Warning: This article discusses sexual abuse and child abuse. The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), the Self-harm Childhelp National Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453), What Is Sexual Violence? and the National Sexual assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) can Sexual violence is a term that encompasses all crimes like sexual asall be reached 24/7. sault, rape, and sexual abuse. Terms vary from state to state, but this In our society, sexual abuse and violence towards men is often over- is a general overview. looked and neglected. This is a real problem many boys and men Sexual Assault have faced and face on a day-to-day basis. How can we further unChild Sexual Abuse derstand and prevent this reality? Sexual Assault Of Men And Boys
What Is Sexual Abuse?
Source: rawpixel.com
Incest Drug Facilitated Sexual Assault
Sexual violence can take on other forms that can be overlooked. It is Sexual abuse is described as unwanted sexual activity, with perpetra- crucial to look out for the warning signs, be knowledgeable, and be tors often using force and coercion when the individual doesn’t give open about your experience. Some of the other forms of sexual violence include: consent. Sexual abuse is common between people who know each other and strangers alike. Stalking: “Stalking is a pattern of repeated and unwanted attention, What Happens When You Are Sexually Abused? harassment, contact, or any other course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to feel Anyone can experience sexual abuse, and can have many debilitating fear,” according to the Department of Justice. symptoms in both children and adults. Sexual Harassment: Sexual harassment can include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical Signs Of Sexual Abuse In Children sexual harassment in the work environment or learning space. Signs and symptoms of sexual abuse in children fall into three cateSexual Exploitation: Sexual exploitation can include unwanted sexual gories: physical, behavioral, and emotional. conduct of any kind between a professional and the individual seekPhysical: Physical signs of abuse in children can take the form of ing their services. These professionals can consist of and aren’t limbruises, bleeding, and even sexually transmitted infections. ited to police officers, doctors, lawyers, religious leaders, and profesBehavioral: Children can manifest different behavioral problems such sors. as engaging in sexual activities, wetting the bed, excessive shyness, especially around removing clothes, and avoiding certain adults. Emotional: Children who have been abused can begin to discuss sexually explicit topics, regressing to early childhood behaviors such as sucking their thumbs, having vivid nightmares, and showing signs of anxiety.
Sexual Abuse In Adults College-age and older adults can experience sexual abuse and violence as well. The perpetrators can be trusted adults, peers, or even
How Do Men Face Sexual Abuse And Violence? Source: rawpixel.com As mentioned earlier, anyone can experience sexual abuse or violence. Men and boys face unique problems and challenges due to social attitudes and stereotypes regarding masculinity. It is a common stereotype that men can’t be survivors of sexual abuse or violence. The topic of sexual violence towards men isn’t something you hear often. Oftentimes people believe men should be able to fight off an attacker, or that they can’t be forced into sexual
acts. This stigma can lead male survivors to feel even more at odds with their experience and prevent them from seeking support.
exclusively committed against men and boys. These violent acts don’t necessarily have to be sexual in nature.
Men and boys who have survived sexual assault can experience the same effects as survivors of other forms of abuse and trauma. Men who have experienced and survived sexual assault as adults can feel a sense of shame or self-doubt. Men can also have a more challenging time understanding their situation if they got an erection or ejaculated during the encounter. Ejaculation and erections do not suggest you wanted, invited or enjoyed the assault. This isn’t an all-encompassing list, but these are some of the shared experiences by both young and adult male survivors:
Even though it is presented in society that women are at a higher risk of violent crimes, this isn’t necessarily the case. 2.5 percent of men 15 or older reported experiencing a violent crime versus 1.7 percent of women. Another study showed out of over 215,000 homicides, 77% of the victims were males. As a male, you may not have been raised to believe this, but it is the unfortunate reality we face today.
Feeling “less of a man” or feeling like you lost control of your own body Difficulty sleeping, feeling on edge, or being unable to relax Concerns or questions about sexual orientation PTSD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and flashbacks Withdrawal from relationships and social isolation Fears of judgment or disbelief Keep in mind that if you faced sexual assault or violence, it is never your fault. You are not alone in your experience or “less of a man” because of it. You are a survivor, and that makes you strong in its own right. Most first-time survivors experience intimate partner sexual violence before 25, most commonly before the age of 18. Survey data has also found about 1 in 3 men will experience some form of sexual violence from a partner. It’s also important to note that even though sexual violence is portrayed as mainly involving female survivors, there is a high rate of male survivors. 3 out of 33 studies show male victimization rates of more than 57%. This shows that contrary to popular belief, men and boys are just as likely to experience sexual violence.
How Gender Stereotypes Affect Male Survivors Through gender stereotypes and gender role socialization, men are put into the sexually dominant role. This gender role socialization implies men are sexual opportunists and should “make the first move.” There is also the belief that men are always willing to engage in sexual activity. This belief and stereotype can cause men to feel guilty for refusing sexual advances. The “sexual opportunist” frame can imply that men cannot experience negative consequences of sexual violence. Male survivors may also report fewer negative feelings to maintain this social script and their self-image. Evidence suggests that sexual violence can be even more traumatizing for men, given the sex-role stereotypes. Men can feel “unmasculine” and suffer from a fundamental identity crisis.
What Is The Meaning Of Male Violence? Male violence relates to violent acts that are disproportionately or
Women are often warned about sexual and physical violence, and men are often expected to just hold their own. This reinforces the idea that men cannot or are unlikely to be victims of sexual and physical violence. When men do face these experiences, it can be challenging for them to get help. If you have faced any sexual or physical violence, do not feel ashamed or be afraid to speak up. Your experience is real, and you can receive the support and guidance you need to handle it accordingly.
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