| This study examines the coping strategies clinicians observe to be employed by African American male survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Seven mental health professionals who work directly with African American male survivors of CSA and who have worked for at least a year in private practice, group practice, outpatient mental health clinics, community mental health centers, children's advocacy centers, and family service agencies completed a demographic form and a semi-structured interview. The interviews demonstrated that African American males uniquely experience sexual abuse and the coping mechanisms they employ differ from others with similar experiences. By documenting African American coping strategies clinicians may gain a respect and understanding of African American culture, find ways to incorporate this demographic into traditional models of treating CSA, and make the therapeutic process more attractive to a culture of people who underutilize mental health services. |
